UK boosts air force power with planned F‑35A fighter purchase
The United Kingdom plans to acquire American F-35A fighters, despite concerns from European allies about dependence on the USA, "The Times" reported.
What do you need to know?
- The United Kingdom plans to purchase American F-35A fighters, aiming to partially replace the aging Eurofighter Typhoon.
- The Royal Air Force intends to retire 49 Eurofighter aircraft that have served for over 20 years.
- The United Kingdom will continue to participate in the production of Eurofighter Typhoon for export, manufacturing about 15 percent of the components.
Why is the United Kingdom choosing the F-35A?
According to The Times, the United Kingdom decided to purchase American F-35A fighters, even though European allies are expressing concerns about excessive dependence on Washington in terms of armaments.
This decision is part of the strategy to modernize the British Air Force, which plans to retire 49 Eurofighter Typhoons.
What are the consequences for the British Air Force?
The purchase of the F-35A has strategic significance for the Royal Air Force, which had previously ordered 48 F-35B fighters for two Royal Navy aircraft carriers.
The new fighters are set to replace part of the aging Eurofighters that have served in the British Air Force for over two decades.
Will the United Kingdom still produce Eurofighters?
Despite the decision to purchase the F-35A, the United Kingdom is not abandoning its role in the production of the Eurofighter Typhoon.
As reported by The Times, the country will continue production for export, including to Saudi Arabia and Turkey, manufacturing about 15 percent of the components.
