The United Kingdom government has confirmed for the first time that it intends to operate both F-35B and F-35A fighters in the Royal Air Force (RAF).
Traditionally focused on the F-35B variant, used on aircraft carriers, the United Kingdom is now considering acquiring the F-35A version, which uses conventional takeoff and landing. The change aligns with the new Strategic Defence Review, which recommends expanding the F-35 fleet with a combination of both variants to meet military demands more cost-effectively.
One of the main reasons for this potential acquisition is related to the United Kingdom’s participation in NATO’s nuclear sharing mission. Although the country already has its own submarine-based nuclear deterrent system (with Trident missiles), joining NATO’s air mission would mean British aircraft are prepared to carry American nuclear weapons in the event of war. The Defence Secretary stated that talks with the US and NATO about this possibility have already begun.
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The debate also raised concerns about the costs of the variants. Parliamentarians cited the US decision to reduce F-35B orders, which is expected to raise the price of that version, and questioned whether the UK should consider converting orders to the F-35C or modifying its aircraft carriers. Although the government did not directly comment on these suggestions, it reinforced its commitment to NATO and the recommendations of the new defence strategy.
The case of Germany, which opted for the F-35A after abandoning plans to purchase Super Hornets for the nuclear mission, serves as an example and supports the possible British direction.
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Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @RoyalAirForce | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
