The United Kingdom has completed the first phase of acquiring F-35B fighter jets after receiving the final three aircraft included in the initial contract, bringing the total delivered by Lockheed Martin to 48 units.
The jets have been incorporated into RAF Marham, strengthening the structure of the British air force dedicated to this model.
The program has a strong economic impact in the country, with participation from the local industry and the creation of more than 20,000 jobs. According to estimates, the initiative is expected to generate around $61 billion over its lifetime, with nearly half of that amount already realized.
Despite the progress, the British government maintains its plan to acquire a total of 138 F-35 aircraft, but without a defined timeline to reach that number. Authorities indicate that future decisions will depend on the Defence Investment Plan, which will guide upcoming purchases and the composition of the fleet.
The program, however, faces technical challenges, such as delays in the Block 4 upgrade, which is essential to expand the jets’ weapons capabilities. In addition, a recent strategic review has altered the original plans by including the F-35A variant and reducing part of the F-35B orders, indicating that the final fleet will be more diversified than initially expected.
Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @RoyalAirForce | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
48 UK F-35s DELIVERED. 🇬🇧@LockheedMartin fulfilled the Initial Procurement Phase for the UK’s F-35s — a milestone powered by partnership, capability and collaboration. pic.twitter.com/LFa6J49nRU
— F-35 Lightning II (@thef35) April 24, 2026
