, Britain's Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpy recently caught sight of the first production example of the new Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) when he visited Fort Worth, Texas.
Due to take over front line duties from a variety of aircraft, including Harrier, the JSF will, along with the Typhoon, make up the backbone of Britain's UK fast jet capability. Built by Lockheed Martin this first production aircraft – F-35 AA-1 – flew its maiden flight on 15 December 2006.
Sir Glenn was briefed on the aircraft's development and capabilities during his inspection and said:
“After the discussions in Williamsburg which included talks about the JSF programme, it was very rewarding to be able to actually see one of the first examples.”
JSF is being developed under a joint US/UK and other nation agreement. Minister for Defence Procurement Lord Drayson recently signed the protocol releasing the next stage of UK funding for the project. BAE Systems and Rolls Royce are among the companies extensively involved.
The UK variant will be a multi-role fighter/attack aircraft with a short takeoff and vertical landing capability similar to the current Joint Force Harrier, and will be able to operate from land bases or aircraft carriers.
Advantages over the Harrier will include supersonic flight, stealth, improved survivability and range, and be able to carry munitions inboard and externally. Vertical lift will be provided by a Rolls Royce-developed fan system.
The JSF will keep the RAF at the forefront of military aviation technology and give it an aircraft that will surpass most current and planned future aircraft and weapons systems until the middle of this century.
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