Defence news today includes reporting of the final F-35B Lightning delivery this year and a report on efficiency savings.
UK takes delivery of final F-35B Lightning of the year
The Daily Star and Forces Network report that the UK has taken delivery of its 14th F-35 Lightning and that it will be capable of operating from the Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers and land.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:
“This Christmas delivery is the 14th jet to join our fleet of fifth-generation F-35 fighters over in the US. The Carriers have taken centre-stage this year, and next year we look towards these aircraft joining us in Britain and taking off from HMS Queen Elizabeth's enormous deck to undertake First of Class Flight Trials. With our famous Royal Air Force coming into its 100th anniversary, the F-35 keeps us right at the cutting-edge of combat air power."
Peter Ruddock, Chief Executive of Lockheed Martin UK said:
“There are more than 500 UK companies in our supply chain who play a vital role in producing every F-35 and we are proud to have delivered the UK’s 14th aircraft on schedule. More than 260 F-35s are now flying from 14 bases around the world and we look forward to supporting the UK’s Lightning Force, as they prepare to bring their F-35s to the UK and achieve initial operational capability next year.”
Read more on this here.
The House of Commons Defence Committee report
There is further coverage of the House of Commons Defence Committee report on efficiency savings on BBC News and The Times.
An MOD spokesperson said:
In the face of intensifying threats our £178bn Equipment Plan continues to deliver the cutting-edge kit to keep the UK safe. As we told the Defence Committee, we are making good progress towards our efficiency target. We always look to provide the best value for money for the taxpayer, with all savings reinvested in defence.
IMAGE OF THE DAY
The UK has taken delivery of its 14th F-35B Lightning II which flew into Beaufort, South Carolina last week to take its place as part of the Lightning Fleet, set to operate from Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers and RAF Marham.
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