The UK's Royal Navy and Royal Air Force (RAF) are strengthening their collaboration with the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning IIs, the advanced stealth fighters that are crucial to the UK's Lightning Force. This force includes two key squadrons: the RAF's 617 Squadron "The Dambusters" and the Royal Navy's 809 Naval Air Squadron "The Immortals."

A Joint Force for Land and Sea

The F-35B's short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) capability makes it versatile for both land and sea missions. As the UK prepares for its 2025 global Carrier Strike Group deployment, this capability is set to play a pivotal role in joint operations. A significant milestone is upcoming with Exercise Strike Warrior, where F-35Bs from both squadrons will operate aboard the Royal Navy's HMS Prince of Wales, currently serving as NATO's flagship.

Integrated Operations: A Unique Partnership

Unlike the US, where Air Force and Navy fighter operations are separate, the UK's approach allows a unique level of collaboration between the RAF and Royal Navy. Both services jointly operate the F-35Bs, with personnel from each force working together. The F-35Bs on HMS Prince of Wales will be a combined team effort, featuring pilots and crew from both the RAF and Royal Navy, demonstrating a unified air power approach.

A New Era for the 809 Naval Air Squadron

The 809 Naval Air Squadron "The Immortals," re-established in December 2023, will embark on its first sea mission during Exercise Strike Warrior, marking a new chapter in its storied history. Originally raised during World War II, the squadron was handpicked to operate the fifth-generation Lightning IIs, honouring its legacy as a distinguished strike force.

Testing the Limits: F-35 Trials on HMS Prince of Wales

HMS Prince of Wales has served as a critical test platform for the F-35B's capabilities. Last year, it hosted the Development Test Phase 3 (DT3) trials, expanding the operational range of this advanced stealth fighter. Notably, an American F-35B completed the first shipborne rolling vertical landing (SRVL) on the flight deck, followed by the first night-time SRVL weeks later. These milestones signify the growing versatility and operational reach of the UK's carrier-based air capabilities.

A Powerful Force

During recent trials, the F-35B Lightning IIs demonstrated their full potential in "beast mode," carrying an impressive 22,000 pounds of ordnance—comparable to the heaviest bombs used during World War II. This capability showcases the formidable strength the F-35Bs bring to the UK’s carrier strike group, ensuring the nation remains at the forefront of modern naval air power. As the UK prepares for its global Carrier Strike Group deployment in 2025, the continued partnership between the Royal Navy and RAF with the F-35B Lightning IIs represents a cutting-edge evolution in joint military operations, ready to respond to the challenges of modern warfare.