# Why Britain’s F-35s Could Be Consigned to the Scrap Heap
As the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales embarks on the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, it carries with it a fleet of F-35 Lightning jets, touted as the pinnacle of modern military aviation. These American-made fighter jets, often described as “flying computers,” are equipped with advanced sensors and stealth technology, designed for deep penetration into hostile territories for strikes and intelligence gathering. However, the path to their deployment has been fraught with challenges, raising questions about their future in the UK’s defense strategy.
## A Troubled Journey
The F-35 program, initiated in the 1980s, has become the most expensive weapons program in history, with projected lifetime costs reaching $2 trillion. The UK joined the program in 1995, contributing to development costs and ensuring British companies became suppliers. Despite the initial enthusiasm, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has been vague about the total number of jets it intends to procure, with only 48 jets ordered for delivery by 2025, and negotiations for an additional 27 ongoing.
Critics argue that the F-35’s high costs and operational challenges could lead the new Labour government to reconsider its commitment to the program. The F-35B variant, chosen for its short take-off and vertical landing capabilities, is the most expensive version, costing approximately £150 million each when accounting for all expenses. This financial burden, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding the Tempest program—a homegrown next-generation stealth fighter—has led to calls for a reassessment of the UK’s defense priorities.
## Sovereignty and Control Issues
One of the significant criticisms of the F-35 program is the lack of sovereignty over the aircraft and its technologies, which remain under the control of the Pentagon. This has led to concerns about the UK’s ability to operate independently in future conflicts. In contrast, the Tempest program, backed by treaties with Japan and Italy, offers the UK more control over its defense capabilities.
Francis Tusa, an independent defense analyst, highlights that the F-35 is perceived as a flawed platform with an uncertain future. The ongoing delays and operational issues have further fueled skepticism about the program’s viability. The UK’s late entry into service, four years behind schedule, has raised alarms about its readiness and effectiveness.
## Economic Implications
Despite the criticisms, proponents of the F-35 argue that it plays a crucial role in maintaining the UK’s air power. The program supports thousands of jobs in the UK, with over 800 domestic companies involved in its production. Lockheed Martin claims that the F-35 has generated £45 billion in exports for the UK, emphasizing its economic significance.
Military leaders advocate for the acquisition of more F-35s to enhance the operational capabilities of the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force. However, the MoD has faced scrutiny for its lack of transparency regarding the allocation of these jets between different branches of the military.
## The Future of UK Defense
As the Labour government conducts a comprehensive defense review, the fate of the F-35 program hangs in the balance. Critics warn that cutting back on F-35 purchases may be politically easier than withdrawing from the Tempest program, which is seen as vital for the UK’s long-term defense strategy. The potential for significant cuts in defense spending raises concerns about the UK’s ability to meet its NATO commitments and respond to emerging threats.
In conclusion, while the F-35s represent a leap in technological advancement, their future in the UK’s defense arsenal is uncertain. The combination of high costs, operational challenges, and questions of sovereignty may lead to a reassessment of their role, potentially consigning them to the scrap heap of military history.