F-35 deployed to Europe for the first time

F-35A Lightning IIs, airmen and accompanying equipment arrived at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England on 15 April, marking the aircraft’s first overseas training deployment to Europe. The F-35As are from the 34th Fighter Squadron, 388th Fighter Wing and the Air Force Reserve’s 466th Fighter Squadron, 419th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, and these will conduct air training over the next several weeks with other Europe-based aircraft in support of the European Reassurance Initiative.

An overseas training deployment has been part of the US Air Force’s plan since the F-35A was declared combat capable last year and as part of the training deployment, the aircraft will forward deploy to NATO nations to maximise training opportunities, build partnerships with allied air forces and gain a broad familiarity of Europe’s diverse operating conditions. The introduction of the premier fifth-generation fighter to the European area of responsibility brings with it state-of-the-arts sensors, interoperability, and a broad array of advanced air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions that will help maintain the fundamental sovereignty rights of all nations.