The Ministry of Defence have clarified the details surrounding the Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers and their complement of F-35B strike aircraft. The following is a direct quote from the MoD and can be found here.

There has been speculation in the media that there has been a change in the delivery programme for the F-35B that may result in delays to the roll out of the UK’s Carrier Strike capability – and that, in an operational emergency, US jets may fly from the Carriers until the UK F35 fleet is ready.

  • This is not the case. It was always the intention to take a phased approach to ordering F35.
  • We are fully committed to both the F35 and the Queen Elizabeth Carrier programmes -both of which are on track to enter initial maritime operating capability in December 2020 as planned.
  • We expect Queen Elizabeth carrier to commence sea trials in 2017, and have been clear that UK F35 aircraft will be used for first of class flying trials in 2018.
  • Our relationship with the US is mutually beneficial and we share a sense of common purpose. In 2012 we signed an agreement to enhance cooperation on carrier operations. Indeed, UK pilots have already flown from US ships in preparation for UK carrier operations.
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George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
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Raymonde Forster
9 years ago

Okay.

Stephen Page
Stephen Page
8 years ago

I have absolutely no problem with US F35’s being deployed to British aircraft carriers and I don’t get what all the fuss is about, the Anglo-American military synergy is a prime example to other nations regarding joined-up strategic thinking as applied to defence.

Steve Cramsie
Steve Cramsie
8 years ago

If the UK had zero aircraft carriers and no real ability to defend itself, the US would be the first nation to send ships to defend UK soil, it’s closest ally — guaranteed. So any military synergy in the real world is a natural offshoot of this idea.