Eglin gets upgraded F-35

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- An F-35 with upgraded software arrived here Monday. The 58th Fighter Squadron will get 13 more of the Block 2s by the end of the year. For the first time, F-35 pilots will be able to use a series of six sensors embedded in the skin of the F-35 that provide a complete spherical view around the jet, day or night. The addition of at least 16 new aircraft this year will add more permanent personnel to the 33rd Fighter Wing, which oversees the schoolhouse that will train personnel from all military branches as well as international students. The wing now employs more than 1,300 people, but that's projected to go to 1,900 by the end of the year. (Source: Northwest Florida Daily News, Flightglobal, 05/07/13)