The United Kingdom has resumed deliveries of the F-35B Lightning, one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, after a lengthy break. On 8 May 2025, two next-generation F-35B aircraft departed from Fort Worth, Texas, and successfully arrived at RAF Marham in the UK with the support of an Airbus Voyager tanker aircraft.
Details of the Delivered Aircraft
The tail numbers of the delivered F-35Bs have been announced as:
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037/ZM171
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038/ZM172
These aircraft mark the first F-35 fighter jets delivered to RAF Marham since 20 March 2024.
Rising Global Tensions and Fleet Expansion Strategy
According to the UK Ministry of Defence, the decision to expand the F-35 fleet was made in light of factors such as instability in the Middle East and escalating tensions in South Asia. The new deliveries aim to strengthen the country’s military deterrence and enhance operational flexibility.
Modernisation Accelerates
Ministry officials stated that F-35B deliveries will continue to increase in the coming period and that the Royal Air Force’s modernisation efforts are gaining momentum. As part of this strategy, the new generation of fighter aircraft is planned to take on active roles in both land- and sea-based operations.
