A written answer in Parliament has confirmed that both US Air Force F 35 squadrons based at RAF Lakenheath have achieved full operating capacity.
Responding to Ben Obese Jecty MP, defence minister Alistair Carns stated plainly that “the two US Air Force F 35 squadrons stationed at RAF Lakenheath have reached full operating capacity, which was achieved in autumn 2025.”
In the spring, Gen. Christopher Cavoli told the US Senate that the first squadron was already operational and the second would be complete over the summer, with full capability expected by the autumn.
Lakenheath’s F 35 presence centres on the 48th Fighter Wing’s two fifth generation units, the 495th Fighter Squadron and the 493rd Fighter Squadron. The 495th reactivated in 2021, becoming the first USAF F 35A unit permanently based overseas. Together, the two squadrons are programmed to field a combined fleet of 52 aircraft.
Operationally, the squadrons give the United States a standing fifth generation capability in Europe at a time when deterring Russia remains a priority. The aircraft have already forward deployed to Poland and continue to train across the region alongside NATO partners.
The base
RAF Lakenheath lies in Suffolk near the village of Lakenheath, close to Mildenhall and Thetford, with its boundary running alongside Brandon. Although it is an RAF station, it functions as a base for United States Air Force units. The 48th Fighter Wing, known as the Liberty Wing, operates from the site and flies F15E Strike Eagles and F35A Lightning II aircraft under USAFE AFAFRICA.
In November 2024, personnel at RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall and RAF Feltwell reported multiple drone incursions. The unmanned systems varied in size and configuration, and the activity disrupted local flying. Reports indicated that F15E aircraft were scrambled in response, and RAF Regiment units later deployed with the ORCUS counter UAS system following further sightings during the night.
The 48th Fighter Wing supports thousands of service members, civilian staff and families across Lakenheath and Feltwell. It represents the largest American fighter presence in Europe and fields four combat ready squadrons. The Liberty name dates to 1954 during the wing’s service in France, a designation that became formally recognised shortly afterwards.
