Singapore will be the first in history to use F-35B fighters from ground bases
In 2019, Singapore signed a contract to buy four fifth-generation F-35B Lightning II fighter jets with deliveries through 2026 and the option to increase the order to 12 units. The country's Air Force is known to have exercised this option.
Here's What We Know
Costing $2.75 billion for the first contract, Singapore's Ministry of Defence has announced the purchase of eight more F-35B fifth-generation fighter jets. The decision was made after an evaluation of the F-35A and F-35B with the assistance of the US Air Force and the Marine Corps.
With the completion of the F-35 evaluation, MINDEF will be exercising the option to purchase another eight F-35Bs.
- The RSAF (@TheRSAF) February 24, 2023
These technologically advanced F-35Bs will ensure that the RSAF remains future-ready and effective in safeguarding Singapore's skies. https://t.co/SFHB48zrdT
The Lockheed Martin fighters will replace the fourth-generation F-16C/D Fighting Falcon aircraft, which will be retired by the middle of the next decade. The F-35B is a short takeoff and vertical landing variant, which makes it more expensive than the standard F-35A.
Interestingly, Singapore will become the first country in history to operate the F3-35B Lightning II from land bases rather than aircraft carriers. The aircraft's ability to take off without the need for a long runway will be useful in a war situation where the base infrastructure is damaged.
Source: The RSAF
