Image source: topwar.ru
The UK received another batch of American fifth-generation F-35B fighters, three aircraft landed on one of the British military bases on November 23. This was reported by the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom.
With the arrival of three new fighters, the total number of F-35B received by Britain reached 30 units, of which 3 are still in the United States for pilot training, 26 in the United Kingdom and one was lost due to a fall into the Mediterranean Sea. It happened last year in November, the plane was part of the aircraft wing of the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth.
According to available information, the British will receive seven more F-35B fighters next year, and by the end of 2025, the United States plans to deliver all 48 ordered aircraft. At the same time, a decision will be made on the purchase of the second batch, the number of fighters in which has not yet been determined.
According to the initial plans of the British military department, London intended to purchase 138 F-35B fighters in total until 2030, which were to be distributed between the Air Force and the British Navy. Most of the received aircraft were to remain in the Air Force, the other, smaller part, to replenish the wing of the aircraft carriers HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales. It is difficult to say how things are now, because procurement decisions have changed several times. At the same time, according to available data, the total number of fighters planned for purchase remains unchanged, i.e. 138 F-35B.
The F-35B Lightning II fighter has the ability to take off and land vertically and is designed primarily for use on aircraft carriers, helicopter carriers and universal landing craft with a flight deck.
