But the real revolution, according to him, lies in on-board technology. “The F-35 collects, merges and transmits in real time all the useful data – that of the plane, of the other F-35s, but also of the surrounding systems and satellites. We receive everything in a clear, readable manner, without overload. It is an immense asset in operations”, explains “Jenius”.
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“Faster air superiority”
And the famous helmet at 400,000 euros? “It’s not just a headset, it’s an extension of the plane. It directly displays the information I need and literally allows me to see through the device. What the plane sees, I see too,” he emphasizes.
In use, the pilot speaks of a device that is “easier to fly”, precisely because it assists the pilot more. “The F-35 helps enormously, especially for takeoff and landing. It’s another generation, an aircraft that combines power, stealth and intelligence. We have faster air superiority, with fewer aircraft.”
And when we ask him what he felt when he got into his F-35 for the first time? He smiles. “In the moment, we stay focused, professional. But when we land… we say to ourselves, wow, that was incredible.”
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fighter jet after a flight at Skrydstrup Barracks, Denmark, on October 13, 2025. The flight is one of the last daily training flights for the F16 fighter jet. Later this year, the F-16 will be replaced by the F-35 fighter jet, which has only one pilot seat. (Photo by Ida Marie Odgaard / Ritzau Scanpix / AFP) / Denmark OUT” class=”absolute inset-0 w-full”/>