2013年1月18日，美国马里兰州，美国海军 F-35C“闪电”II 舰载型系统发展与验证机进行首次双机编队空中加油， 加油机是来自 VX-20 空中测试与评估中队的 KC-130R“大力神”空中加油机。（CF-2 Flight 158 with Mr. Dan Canin and CF-1 Flight 189 with LT Chris Tabert on 18 January 2013. First dual refueling of F-35C on KC-130 tanker. Two F-35C Lightning II carrier variant test aircraft refuel together with a Lockheed Martin KC-130 Hercules for the first time in the sky above Patuxent River, Md., in January 2013.）

2013年1月18日，美国马里兰州，美国海军 F-35C“闪电”II 舰载型系统发展与验证机进行首次双机编队空中加油， 加油机是来自 VX-20 空中测试与评估中队的 KC-130R“大力神”空中加油机。照片几乎定格了 KC-130R 的螺旋桨，显示了照相机非常高的快门速度。（NAVAL AIR SYSTEMS COMMAND, PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (Jan. 18, 2013) Two F-35 Lightning II carrier variants completed an aerial refueling for the first time. Test pilots Navy Lt. Christopher Tabert and Dan Canin flew CF-1 and CF-2 respectively, with a KC-130 from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20 at Naval Air Station Patuxent River. This was the first dual aerial refueling for the F-35C. The F-35C carrier variant of the Lightning II is distinct from the F-35A and F-35B variants with its larger wing surfaces and reinforced landing gear to withstand catapult launches and deck landing impacts associated with the demanding aircraft carrier environment. Initial carrier trials for the F-35C are scheduled for 2014. The F-35C is undergoing flight test and evaluation at NAS Patuxent River before delivery to the fleet.）