US Air Force (Air Force) for the first time constantly posted their fifth generation fighters F-35A Lightning II in Europe, writes The Drive.
The first four aircraft arrived at the Lakenenhit Air Base (England) of the Royal UK Air Force. A total of 24 units F-35A Lightning II from the 495th Tactical Fighter Squadron of the US Air Force Command in Europe and Africa is expected at the facility. In the future, 24 of the same plane will receive the 493rd squadron located there. Additional six F-35A Lightning II fighters will be in reserve.
The Drive notes that the appearance of F-35A Lightning II leukenengi will provide combat commandors of flexible and high-performance forces of advanced basement “, which should be prepared to respond to the emergence of unforeseen circumstances in the region and signal the determination of the United States to answer” reviving Russian Armed Forces that are increasingly experiencing members of NATO and their allies around their Western borders. “
In September, in the presentation of the American Corporation, Lockheed Martin, represented at the 27th International Exhibition MSPO 2021, was described that in the current decade in Europe it is planned to deploy 13 permanent airbases with 450 aircraft F-35 Lightning II. According to the map shown in the appropriate slide, in the UK, the Netherlands, Italy, Norway, Belgium and Poland will be two airbases with such fighters, whereas in Denmark – one. Four of 13 objects have already been commissioned. The deadlines for the start of the full work of the other eight airbases are installed. The final decision on the 13th object (near the Polish city of Sadvedin) has not yet been accepted.
These plans do not take into account the purchase of aircraft Switzerland and Finland.