US Marine Corps F-35B fighter jets landed near Russia’s northwestern borders for the first time on Finnish territory during the Ramstein Flag 2026 exercises. According to Military Watch Magazine, this reflects a shift by the US Armed Forces toward more active use of dispersed operations.

The aircraft in question are fifth-generation F-35B fighters, capable of short takeoff and vertical landing. During the exercises, they were deployed not at a major air base, but on Finnish highways in the Tervo area. In MWM’s assessment, this format shows Washington’s growing interest in strategies that allow aviation to continue operating even without relying on large airfields.

The publication recalls that the F-35B is considered the most expensive serially produced fighter jet in the world, with one aircraft estimated at about $130 million.

At the same time, the magazine also points to the weak sides of this F-35 variant. According to MWM, the aircraft is among the most difficult to maintain, while its flight range is significantly inferior to Russian counterparts such as the Su-57 and Su-34.

Military Watch Magazine also notes the limited combat characteristics of the F-35B. The publication says the maneuverability of this Marine Corps fighter is the worst among 21st-century fighter jets, its supersonic capabilities are seriously limited, and its small internal weapons bays restrict both the types and amount of armament it can carry.