Fighter jets

Air Force Col. Roderick L. Cregier inspects the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter as it is prepared for flight during testing at Edwards Air Force Base. Per-plane cost estimates have climbed to $161 million.  (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II lifts off during testing at Edwards Air Force Base.   (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is prepared for testing at Edwards Air Force Base.   (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

The F-16 fighter jet takes off at Edwards Air Force Base.   (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Air Force Staff Sgt. Brad Anthis checks the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter as it is prepared for flight during testing at Edwards on March 19, 2013.  (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Air Force Staff Sgts. Brad Anthis, left, and Jonny Hirata, right, check the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter as it is prepared for flight during testing at Edwards Air Force Base. The numerous decals fixed to the side of the jet are used to monitor flight and payload performance by video during testing.   (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)