Mike Kelly Defence, Permanent, Contract...
Two years later than planned the first of the RAF's £100m F-35 stealth jets; touched down last week, at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, to resurrect 617 'Dambusters' Squadron.
The first of eight of the new aircraft purchased by The Ministry of landed in the UK for the first time after crossing the Atlantic, accompanied by two other F-35Bs from the United States Marine Corps.
The MOD has said it will eventually buy a total of 138 of the aircraft, which are described as the most advanced warplanes ever built. The F-35B will eventually be flown off the Royal Navy's new carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales.
Michael Fallon, the Defence Secretary, said:
“The F-35Bs are the most advanced fast jets in the world. Whether operating from land or from one of our two new aircraft carriers, they will ensure we have a formidable fighting force.”