The UK formally announced its intention to acquire the F-35B Lightning in 2006. For many years, the country’s JSF programme was known as Joint Combat Aircraft (JCA), which remained F-35B based until the 2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review, which switched the British requirement to the F-35C.

Nov 16, 2024 · “The Prime Contractor of the F-35, Lockheed Martin, has confirmed its intention to deliver the 48 UK aircraft ordered so far (Tranche 1) by the end of 2025.” The F-35 aircraft are a critical component of the UK’s future combat air capability, operated jointly by the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.

The UK’s 35th F-35 arrived in the UK in March 2024, the same month that ‘Dambusters’ F-35B’s took part in Steadfast Defender - NATO’s largest exercise since the Cold War – demonstrating the jet’s interoperability with NATO allies and capability delivered from the Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales.

Responding on 29th October 2024, Defence Minister Lord Coaker confirmed the anticipated number, stating, “It is anticipated that the UK will have 41 F-35Bs on inventory by May 2025.” This update aligns with the Ministry of Defence’s ongoing efforts to meet its fleet expansion goals.

Mar 30, 2024 · Updates on the UK's F-35 Lightning Force, highlighting operational advancements and budget ringfencing for 74 jets.

Oct 15, 2024 · The UK is expected to receive another batch of three F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters before the end of 2024, as the programme moves towards the 50% delivery mark for the initial commitment for 74 aircraft.

Known simply as the ‘Lightning’ in British service, the F-35 model is the short take off/vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the fighter jet that is designed to operate from short-field bases and air-capable ships – such as the Royal Navy’s Queen Elizabeth Class of aircraft carriers.

Sep 13, 2022 · UK’s F-35 Jets to Reach Full Operational Capability by 2025. The UK’s expected full operating capability (FOC) date for the initial two squadrons of F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters has been confirmed as likely to be reached in 2025, representing a departure from timelines discussed as early as last year.

Aug 11, 2024 · In US service, the F-35 is known as the Lightning II, following on from the Second World War-era Lockheed P-38 Lightning, while in UK service it's just called the Lightning. Here's a detailed look at the F-35 Lightning – the most advanced aircraft …

Jul 29, 2024 · The UK has purchased 48 F-35Bs (the F-35 comes in three variants - the F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C). Of these, 35 have been delivered (one was lost in an accident), and the last is expected to be delivered in 2025.