Australian F-35A Lightning II JSF reaches Initial Operational Capability milestone

 

An F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter of the Royal Australian Air Force. Photo c/o Defence Connect.

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) reached a new milestone recently, as its fleet of Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter reached Initial Operational Capability on 28 December 2020.

This would allow the RAAF to deploy the F-35A fighter aircraft in operations after completing a series of testing, and assessment of aircraft and system performance for the last 2 years.

One squadron of the F-35A is now considered operational, while another squadron is dedicated to provide Australia-based training program for new pilots and crew.

The F-35A Lightning II JSF will join the RAAF's existing fleet of F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the EA-18G Growler, and for a few more years, the outgoing F/A-18A/B "Classic" Hornet, in providing air combat and strike capabilities.

Challenges were met in ferrying F-35A fighter aircraft from the US mainland to Australia due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in travel, as well as affecting the production's logistics, and in other requirements prior to delivery of the aircraft.

The Australian defense industry will provide support to the new fighter aircraft, while also benefiting from the program in providing livelihood to Australian businesses and supporting the generation of local jobs.

According to the Australian Department of Defence, the Australian government's contribution to the F-35 program has included 50 Australian companies, including component production and technical support, are sharing A$2.7 billion worth of contracts. 

Australia ordered a total of 72 F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters, with the order expected to be fully delivered to the RAAF by 2024. The aircraft will replace the F/A-18A/B "Classic" Hornet, which has been in service since 1985 and has already started its gradual exit from RAAF service.



[1] Australian Department of Defence