F-35s to Fly at Farnborough

Air Force F-35As will make their debut at the Royal International Air Tattoo and Farnborough Air Show in July, the service announced today. F-35As from Luke AFB, Ariz., will join Marine Corps F-35Bs in both static displays and a heritage flight at the shows. “We’re very excited about demonstrating this capability to the world,” Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh said in a statement. “The F-35 represents a new way of thinking about data integration, weapons, and tactics. We’re thrilled to highlight the program and the amazing airmen who support this cutting-edge fighter.” The F-35A and F-35B appearances were announced separately on Jan. 26, with the Air Force announcing its involvement after the RIAT put out a news release announcing the F-35B’s appearance. “The plan for F-35 aircraft to take part in air shows here in the UK this summer is a significant milestone for our RAF and Royal Navy personnel training hard to fly the F-35; for British industry who are contributing an impressive 15 percent of every aircraft; and for the British public who will have their first opportunity to see this remarkable aircraft in action,” said British Defense Secretary Michael Fallon in the release.