F-35 Lightning II to Perform at Farnborough 2014

UK Defence Secretary, Sir Philip Hammond has confirmed that the F-35 Lighting II will make its international debut in the UK at the Farnborough International Airshow 2014 and Royal International Air Tattoo.

The decision to fly the combat aircraft outside of the United States for the first time, following discussions between Philip Hammond and his US counterpart, Secretary Hagel, is a further demonstration of the progress with the Lightning II programme.

The selection of two UK airshows also demonstrates the significant role that Britain has in the programme. Approximately 15% of every aircraft is built in the UK.

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said, “The US and the UK have worked closely together on the F-35 project from the beginning. We are the only country that is a first tier partner in the project, which is sustaining tens of thousands of jobs in the UK. This fifth generation stealth combat aircraft will be a major boost to British combat air power and it is entirely fitting that the F-35’s first stop outside the United States will be in the UK.”

The F-35 will be making demonstration flights at both trade show and the public weekend.

Amanda Stainer, Commercial Director for show organisers Farnborough International Ltd said, “We are delighted that the news has now been confirmed after weeks of speculation. We are incredibly pleased that the UK MoD and the US DoD have chosen the event to showcase the aircraft. The JSF and F-35 programme has seen participation from nine partner countries including the United Kingdom. FIA will provide the perfect venue for many of the global supply chain companies involved in the programme to showcase their expertise.”

Notice: ASIATravelTips.com / TravelNewsAsia.com will be at Farnborough 2014 bringing you exclusive interviews, still photography and HD videos.