The British F-35 fleet will reach 74 aircraft by 2033, with full operational capability scheduled for December 2025. Find out the details and implications.

Understand in 2 minutes

The UK plans to increase its F-35 fleet to 74 aircraft by 2033. Full operational capability for the first procurement phase is expected by the end of 2025. Development includes the commissioning of new squadrons and tests to extend F-35 capabilities on Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. Despite inflationary challenges, procurement costs remain under control.

UK F-35 fleet expansion

**Current status and future of the fleet

The UK plans to increase its F-35 fleet to 74 aircraft by 2033. Currently, 33 of the first 48 aircraft have been delivered, with full operational capability (FOC) for this first phase scheduled for December 31, 2025. The aim is to strengthen the UK’s on-board power projection capability.

Illustration in figures:
To date, the UK has invested in 48 aircraft, of which 33 have already been delivered. This figure will rise to 74 by 2033, thanks to the acquisition of 27 new aircraft in the second procurement phase.

Squadron developments

**Reconditioning and operational capabilities

On December 8, 2023, 809 Naval Air Squadron was reconstituted at RAF Marham. This squadron is aiming for initial operational capability by December 1, 2024, and will be jointly operated by the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy (RN). This joint collaboration is essential to maximize the effectiveness of the F-35 in a variety of operational environments.

Case in point:
The 809NAS, working towards initial operational capability, will participate in joint missions with other NATO forces, enhancing interoperability and combat readiness.

Operational contributions

**NATO support and long-range missions

British F-35s have played a crucial role in supporting NATO, particularly in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. In 2023, F-35Bs flew long-range missions, integrated with 4th generation Typhoons and fighter aircraft from partner nations, forming a powerful mixed force.

Illustration:
During Operation FIREDRAKE in 2023, eight F-35Bs embarked on HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH, carrying out various operational tasks and exercises with allied forces from Norway, Sweden and Finland.

Development tests

**Extending operational capabilities

In October 2023, development tests were carried out on HMS PRINCE OF WALES to extend the operational limits of the F-35B on Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. The aim of these tests is to formally approve new procedures and increase the F-35B’s operational capabilities.

Figures:
The tests extended the on-board operational envelope, enabling Shipborne Rolling Vertical Landings procedures, crucial for carrier operations.

Costs and Financial Challenges

**Budget under control despite inflation

Despite the challenges posed by global inflation and exchange rate fluctuations, the initial cost of acquiring the F-35 (Tranche 1) remained within the approved budget. The price of the aircraft has decreased by 32% between 2014 and 2022, although a slight increase of 6% is expected for future batches due to inflationary pressure.

Numerical example:
Between 2014 and 2022, the unit cost of the F-35 fell from 108 million euros to around 73.44 million euros, despite an expected increase to 77.45 million euros for future batches.

Progress and deadlines

**Training and recruitment

Fleet development includes the recruitment and ongoing training of engineers, pilots and instructors. The temporary suspension of aircraft deliveries by Lockheed Martin due to software instabilities is not expected to affect the FOC declaration at the end of 2025.

Concrete illustration:
In 2023, six new flight instructors and one tactical weapons instructor were trained, increasing the depth of instructors available to the fleet.

Future developments

**Tranche 2 acquisition

Negotiations are underway for the purchase of 27 new F-35s in Tranche 2, aiming to increase the total fleet to 74 aircraft by 2033. This expansion will support the creation of a third frontline squadron.

Illustration:
The next phase of acquisition will strengthen the UK’s power projection capability, with funds secured for this expansion.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• Enhanced operational capabilities:** The F-35 offers interoperability with allied forces, stealth capabilities and advanced sensor systems.
• Versatility:** Suitable for land and sea operations, the F-35 enhances the UK’s strategic flexibility.

Disadvantages

• High cost:** Despite falling prices, the F-35 remains an expensive aircraft, with financial challenges linked to inflation.
• Technological complexity:** Software problems and complex maintenance can lead to delays and additional costs.

Consequences and Implications

Strategic and Military

The increase in the F-35 fleet will strengthen the UK’s deterrent capability and its role within NATO. The increased power projection capabilities will enable a more effective response to international crises.

Economic

The acquisition and maintenance of the F-35 will represent a significant financial investment for the UK, with long-term budgetary implications.

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Expanding the UK’s F-35 fleet to 74 aircraft by 2033 represents a major strategic development for UK defense. Despite the financial and technological challenges, this initiative will strengthen the country’s power projection capability and its role within NATO. The operational and strategic benefits of the F-35 justify the investment and effort required to overcome the obstacles and achieve the objectives.

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