The United States’ F-35 fighter jets stationed at the Royal Air Force (RAF) base in Lakenheath have entered the operational phase, the UK Parliament revealed.
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“Both F-35 squadrons of the United States Air Force stationed at RAF Lakenheath have achieved full operational capability, which was reached in the autumn of 2025,” stated Defence Minister Alistair Carns.
According to the UK Defence Journal, the F-35 presence in Lakenheath is centred on the two fifth-generation units of the 48th Fighter Wing — the 495th Fighter Squadron and the 493rd Fighter Squadron.
The 495th Squadron was reactivated in 2021, becoming the first permanently overseas-based F-35A unit of the United States Air Force. Together, the two squadrons are set to operate a combined fleet of 52 aircraft.
The squadrons provide the United States with a permanent fifth-generation capability in Europe at a time when deterring Russia remains a priority.
The aircraft have already been deployed to Poland and continue training throughout the region alongside NATO partners.
The RAF Lakenheath base is located in Suffolk, near the village of Lakenheath in England. Although it is a Royal Air Force station, it serves as a base for units of the United States Air Force.
Photo: Royal Air Force. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
