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    UK’s Strategic Ambiguity: Considering F-35A Alongside F-35B Expansion

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    US Air Force F-35A Lightning II pictured at the 2018 Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.
    US Air Force F-35A Lightning II pictured at the 2018 Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.

    The United Kingdom, in a recent correspondence within the House of Commons, has maintained a position of strategic ambiguity regarding the potential acquisition of the F-35A aircraft variant, alongside confirmed plans to expand its fleet of F-35B jets.

    This ambiguity comes amid discussions about the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) operational capacity and the Royal Navy’s (RN) carrier strike capabilities.

    In an exchange with MP Damien Moore, James Cartlidge, Minister of State for the Ministry of Defence, did not dismiss the possibility of procuring the conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) F-35A aircraft.

    This response echoes an earlier statement provided to Labour MP John Healey in June 2023, in which Cartlidge highlighted the UK’s commitment to increasing its F-35B fleet, which features short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) capabilities, to 74 aircraft with its Tranche 2 procurement.

    The UK’s strategic ambiguity around the F-35A variant acquisition suggests a nuanced approach to future defense planning, reflective of evolving military needs and potential threats.

    The F-35A variant offers different operational advantages compared to the F-35B, which is capable of vertical landings and short takeoffs from the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers.

    On December 8, 2023, the 809 Naval Air Squadron, the second front-line squadron, was reestablished at RAF Marham and is progressing towards achieving its Initial Operating Capability slated for December 1, 2024.

    061215-N-8053S-229 Fort Worth, Texas (Dec. 15, 2006) – The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Lightning II, built by Lockheed Martin takes off for its first flight to test the aircraft’s initial capability at Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth. The US Defense Department and eight other allied countries have contracted Lockheed Martin as part of the Joint Strike Fighter program, which was designed to maximize efficiency and minimize the life cycle, costs of a future multi-role fighter jet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class D. Keith Simmons (RELEASED)

    Similar to the entire Force, this squadron will be collaboratively operated by both the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy (RN).

    The progress in the UK’s F-35 program is notable for its achievements amidst global economic pressures.

    Despite inflationary challenges and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, the UK has managed to keep the initial procurement of the first tranche of F-35B jets within budget.

    Moreover, the per-unit cost of the aircraft has decreased significantly since 2014, though a marginal increase is expected for future lots.

    The F-35B fleet has already demonstrated its operational utility, supporting NATO and showcasing interoperability with partner nations during Operation FIREDRAKE in 2023.

    Long-range missions conducted by the UK F-35Bs have emphasized the force’s readiness and capability to respond to various scenarios, including Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

    Conversations around the procurement of the additional 27 F-35 aircraft in Tranche 2 are ongoing.

    This tranche aims to bolster the UK’s carrier strike force and bring the total fleet to 74 aircraft by 2033.

    Relevant articles:
    UK refuses to rule out purchasing F-35A variant, UK Defence Journal
    Plans for Britain’s F-35 fleet, UK Defence Journal
    British defence minister refuses to rule out F, The Register Forums
    Once again, UK doesn’t rule out buying F-35A fighter jets, The Register

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