The RAF will acquire twelve new F-35A fifth-generation aircraft, marking the return of a nuclear role, a first since the Cold War.
As part of the Security Defence Review, the RAF will acquire twelve new F-35A fifth-generation aircraft—a significant milestone in enhancing a more lethal and “Integrated Force” capable of deterring, fighting, and winning to maintain operational relevance.
The F-35A will be available for NATO’s nuclear mission during times of crisis, reinforcing the UK’s contribution to NATO’s nuclear burden-sharing and strengthening deterrence against threats to the UK and its Allies. This marks the return of a nuclear role for the RAF for the first time since the UK retired its air-launched nuclear weapons after the Cold War.
This capability complements the UK’s operationally independent nuclear deterrent, bolsters NATO’s nuclear posture, and reaffirms the UK’s unwavering commitment to collective defence under Article V of the NATO treaty.
As part of the second phase of procurement, the UK will purchase a total of 27 aircraft—comprising twelve F-35As and fifteen F-35Bs. Future purchases are under consideration through the Defence Investment Plan. The UK remains committed to its declared programme headmark of acquiring up to 138 F-35 aircraft over the life of the programme.
On a daily basis, the F-35A will be employed by 207 Squadron, the Operational Conversion Unit (OCU), for pilot training. With greater fuel capacity than the F-35B, the F-35A offers extended flight time per sortie, enhancing training efficiency. Its lower maintenance demands will also increase aircraft availability, accelerating the progression of pilots to front-line squadrons.
The F-35A will complement the existing F-35B fleet, providing a versatile family of strike aircraft that reduces life-cycle costs, meets diverse operational requirements, and improves F-35 Force Generation for Carrier Strike operations.
| Specification | F-35A Lightning II | F-35B Lightning II |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 51.4 ft / 15.7 m | 51.2 ft / 15.5 m |
| Speed | Mach 1.6 | Mach 1.6 |
| Wingspan | 35 ft / 10.7 m | 35 ft / 10.7 m |
| Wing Area | 460 ft² / 42.7 m² | 460 ft² / 42.7 m² |
| Combat Radius (Internal Fuel) | >590 n.mi / 1,093 km | >450 n.mi / 833 km |
| Range (Internal Fuel) | >1,200 n.mi / 2,200 km | >900 n.mi / 1,667 km |
| Internal Fuel Capacity | 18,250 lb / 8,278 kg | 13,100 lb / 5,942 kg |
| Max G-Rating | 9.0 | 7.0 |
| Weapons Payload | 18,000 lb / 8,160 kg | 15,000 lb / 6,800 kg |
| Propulsion | F135-PW-100 | F135-PW-600 |
| Thrust (Max / Mil) | 40,000 lb / 25,000 lb | 38,000 lb / 26,000 lb (40,500 ib vertical) |
Optimised for operations from conventional runways, the F-35A delivers greater range, payload capacity, and agility. These aircraft will be based at RAF Marham and will support the formation of a third front-line F-35 Lightning Squadron.
