Today’s defence in the media blog includes news on the continuing search for the Argentinian submarine and speculation on the UK's F-35 fighter jet programme.
UK helps search for Argentinian submarine
The Times, The Guardian, The Daily Record and Daily Mirror report on the ongoing international search, highlighting the race against time, and commenting on remaining oxygen stores. The reports also highlight the difficulties of storm conditions and several false alarms which are hampering the search effort.
An MOD spokesperson said:
HMS Protector and an RAF C-130 joined the Argentinian-led search on Sunday following our offer of assistance. They will be complemented by HMS Clyde and members of the specialist Submarine Parachute Assistance Group.
You can read more about the UK’s support to Argentina here.
UK may not acquire 138 F-35 jets
Following the HCDC session yesterday on Annual Reports and Accounts, The Financial Times, The Daily Telegraph and The Times speculate on the future of the F-35 order. The coverage report that the UK has already committed to the first 48 jets, with an estimated cost of £9.1 billion in 2025, but suggest uncertainty on the planned total number of 138 jets.
An MOD spokesperson said said:
Our plan to buy 138 F-35 jets over the life of the programme has not changed, with only the US planning to buy more aircraft.
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