Photos of the new Northrop Grumman AN/APG-85 radar installed on a USAF F-35 have been released — and in some images, gym weights appear mounted in the nose of the jet.Is this early integration testing? A production transition? What does APG-85 bring to the fight?
Summary
This episode from The Mover and Gonky Show examines recent imagery showing the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-85 radar installed on a USAF F-35 Lightning II aircraft. Visuals released by the Department of Defense depict what appear to be gym weights mounted inside the nose section of the jet alongside the new sensor equipment. The hosts explore whether these unusual objects indicate early integration testing or represent a production transition phase for the fighter platform. They discuss potential capabilities brought by this advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array radar system and its role in modern air combat scenarios.
The program features commentary from host Mover, an experienced pilot with backgrounds flying F-16s, T-38s, and helicopters, alongside Gonky, who flies A320s and dirt bikes. The discussion aims to provide aviation analysis without implying official Department of Defense endorsement for the views presented. Listeners are directed to additional links in the description for source materials regarding the specific X post that sparked interest in this development. The show maintains a neutral tone while addressing current events within military aviation circles, inviting audience engagement through their podcast platform and social media channels.
Watch “F-35 Gets New AN/APG-85 Radar… With GYM WEIGHTS?!” on YouTube
