The UK expects to complete procurement of an additional 12 F-35A and 15 F-35B aircraft by 2033, with the initial batch of 48 F-35Bs due for delivery by March 2026, according to statements made in the House of Lords.
Speaking during a defence question session, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence Lord Coaker confirmed that the second phase of the UK’s F-35 programme will include 27 aircraft: “12 F-35As and 15 F-35Bs, which will enable the stand-up of the third front-line squadron focused on F-35Bs.”
He added that the government remains committed to acquiring 138 F-35s over the life of the programme, as first stated in its long-term plans.
Lord Coaker also confirmed that the decision to procure F-35As now, ahead of the Defence Investment Plan expected this autumn, was taken in light of “serious geopolitical challenges” and does not alter the total number of aircraft planned. He said it was “important that we made that decision at this particular time in the light of the threat that we face.”
Responding to concerns raised by Lord Houghton of Richmond, Coaker acknowledged that the 12 F-35As would replace 12 of the originally planned F-35Bs and that the A variant is “some 20% cheaper,” saving approximately $240 million. However, he also confirmed that the UK currently lacks the sovereign air-to-air refuelling capability for the F-35A, meaning allied support will be necessary: “He is right about the refuelling capability; there will need to be allied support for that,” Coaker said.
Pressed by Lord West of Spithead, Coaker declined to commit to a review of the UK’s nuclear doctrine but noted that doctrine is always under consideration. He also reaffirmed that the broader investment decisions outlined in the Strategic Defence Review remain on track for the autumn, despite the timing of the F-35A announcement.
Baroness Goldie sought assurance on delivery timelines, to which Coaker responded that he had “every confidence” in meeting the procurement schedule for both variants.
