160814-N-XW558-216 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 14, 2016) Three F-35C Lightning II carrier variants, assigned to the Grim Reapers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 101, fly over the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). VFA-101 aircraft and pilots are conducting initial qualifications aboard George Washington in the Atlantic Ocean. The F-35C is expected to be Fleet operational in 2018. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alex L. Smedegard)