Two new F-35B Lightning jets delivered to UK after transatlantic flight
Two new F-35B Lightning jets have arrived at RAF Marham after making the journey from Lockheed Martin's facility in Fort Worth, Texas.
The fifth-generation stealth aircraft were supported in flight by a Voyager tanker from RAF Brize Norton.
The RAF described the arrival as an important step in the UK's F-35 programme, saying it reflects Britain's ongoing investment in maintaining advanced air power.
The F-35B, used jointly by the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, can operate from land or sea and is capable of short take-off and vertical landing.
It's a key part of the UK's Carrier Strike Group capability and often deploys aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales.
The latest delivery brings the UK closer to its goal of operating 48 F-35Bs by the end of 2025.
While the F-35B is the UK's premier strike fighter, its technology relies on ongoing US support for its software.
This has recently led to concerns over its reliability as the UK's premier strike fighter.
Britain has no option to independently upgrade or modify its systems, because US manufacturer Lockheed Martin, which developed the F-35, retains access to the aircraft software.
While the US has traditionally been a strong reliable ally, relations with the current Trump administration are less predictable.
In March, the US paused military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, sparking concerns about the dependability of a future military partnership with the States.
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