UK Wants "World-Leading" Combat Air Capability

Cover Image: Ministry of Defence

The UK is to launch a 'Combat Air Strategy' to ensure the country maintains a "world-leading" combat air capability.

It will involve the development of Britain's combat air capabilities with international partners and will be launched this summer.

The Defence Secretary told a Defence Select Committee the plan will set out the UK's military requirements.

Gavin Williamson said: "Air power, and more specifically combat air, will remain at the heart of our operational advantage and freedom of action.

"The strategy will seek to ensure the UK maintains the ability to operate both independently and as part of coalitions."

The F-35B Lightning II and the Typhoon are two multi-role combat aircraft that will make up the RAF's combat air fleet, while new technology will be part of the strategy in the future.

The MoD says the Typhoon is expected to remain in service until at least 2040.

Mr Williamson also said: "Since the birth of airpower, British industry has been crucial to maintaining our military’s world-leading position.

"As we celebrate 100 years of the RAF protecting our skies, it is fitting that we create bold and ambitious plans to help our brave Armed Forces keep us safe in the face of intensifying threats.

"The Combat Air Strategy will bring together the best of British engineering, skill and design, and deliver a compelling vision for the future of air power."

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, said:

"This strategy will ensure that the RAF can continue to remain at the forefront of the high-end airpower technology and innovation we need to deal with future threats, working in close collaboration with UK industry and our international partners."