The MXU-1072/A fifth-generation travel pod is installed within the F-35A Lightning II's armory.
A travel pod is typically an external fuel tank or canister fitted with an external door and internal shelves with tie-downs to allow for the transportation of baggage. This setup is useful during XC (cross-country) missions or deployments when the crew needs to accommodate a few small overnight bags or other items (such as squadron memorabilia sold at air shows). It is often used to carry various items.
While previous generation aircraft had travel pods mounted on one of the external stations, the F-35 is equipped with a “fifth generation pod” internally, also known as an Advanced Travel Pod (ATP).
At least one of the first ATPs ordered by the U.S. Air Force for the F-35A Lighting II fleet has been delivered to Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, the base announced in an April 28, 2024 Facebook post.
“The 356th Fighter Squadron helped unveil the new Advanced Travel Pod designed for the F-35A Lightning II at Eielson,” the FB post said. “The ATP is a fifth-generation travel pod that continues the legacy model and is intended to meet the needs of the Air Force’s agile combat employment structure.”
Other than a few photos showing base personnel working on the pod, no additional details were provided.
The pod in the photo is KIHOMAC MXU-1072/A ATP. First deployed in 2021, the pod is a carbon fiber construction designed and manufactured at KIHOMAC's Advanced Manufacturing Center in Layton, Utah. The F-35 has many features not available in previous generation travel pods, including the MXU-648/A, which is based on the BLU-27/B napalm used in the F-16 and A-10. Designed for internal use. , F-15 and other types.
Specifically, new ATP features include:
- Larger access door provides greater access and versatility for large equipment.
- KIHOMAC's integrated tie-down system is flexible for storing odd-sized items and provides adequate protection for all items during flight.
- The lightweight design is over 40 pounds lighter than traditional pods and can be easily handled by a crew of two.
- More storage space with nearly 3x the internal storage of traditional pods (12 cubic feet).
- Standard NATO lug spacing to ensure compatibility with the U.S. military and international partners
- Removable end caps allow for easy loading and unloading of long items.
- Stabilizing legs prevent rolling and unnecessary wear during ground work
- Quick release latches improve handling and access for F-35 crew members.
According to KIHOMAC, the F-35 JPO (Joint Program Office) issued an airworthiness certificate for the MXU-1072/A last month, effectively clearing the first pod for field use. “We are on track to deliver the first 130 pods ordered from the Air Force’s F-35 FMO. [Fleet Management Office] “Shipped last September, with first deliveries scheduled for early April 2024,” the company said in a LinkedIn post.
David Cenciotti is a journalist based in Rome, Italy. He is the founder and editor of 'The Aviationist', one of his most famous and read military aviation blogs in the world. Since 1996, he has contributed to the world's leading magazines, including Air Force Monthly and Combat Aircraft, covering aviation, defense, war, industry, intelligence, crime and cyber warfare. He has reported from the United States, Europe, Australia, and Syria, and has flown several fighter jets in various air forces. He is a former second lieutenant in the Italian Air Force, a private pilot, and a graduate in computer engineering. He wrote five of his books and contributed to many more.
