Britain is planning to buy 12 of the latest nuclear-capable F-35A fighter jets in what Sky News reports would be the biggest build-up of the country's nuclear arsenal in decades. The new jets are expected to be part of a NATO-led nuclear deterrent mission.
What is known about the F-35 fighters, what are the technical characteristics and features of the aircraft – read in the ICTV Facts material.
F-35 fighter: features
The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation multirole fighter aircraft developed by the American company Lockheed Martin in cooperation with several NATO countries.
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This combat aircraft is considered one of the most technologically advanced in the world. It is capable of operating effectively both in air combat and in striking ground targets, conducting reconnaissance and performing specialized operations. It belongs to the generation of American low-observable stealth machines.
Despite its innovation, the F-35 has repeatedly been the subject of criticism. Analysts point out that the cost of one unit is too high at more than $100 million. In addition, servicing this fighter requires significant technical resources and qualified personnel.
The F-35 family includes three main modifications:
- The F-35A is the base model for the Air Force with a conventional takeoff and landing method;
- F-35B – a variant with a shortened takeoff run and vertical landing, actively used by the US Marine Corps;
- The F-35C is a carrier-based version adapted for operation from aircraft carriers.
F-35 aircraft specifications
The F-35 has a wide range of capabilities that allow it to operate effectively in modern combat conditions.
It is capable of carrying out both reconnaissance operations and delivering pinpoint strikes on important targets.
Below are the key technical characteristics of the F-35 that set it apart from other fighters:
- length – 15.67 m;
- wingspan – 10.7 m;
- maximum take-off weight – 31,800 kg;
- speed – 1,930 km/h;
- combat radius – 1,100 km (for F-35A);
- engine — Pratt & Whitney F135;
- weapons internal compartments, as well as suspended (missiles, bombs).
In particular, the F-35A is a carrier of American B61 nuclear bombs.
The F-35 fighter is equipped with the most modern technologies:
- availability of the DAS (Distributed Aperture System) threat detection system;
- AN/APG-81 active phased array radar;
- a pilot's helmet with projection of all information without the need for a traditional cockpit panel.
The price of the F-35 aircraft depends on the modification and configuration. According to the data, the average cost of the F-35A in 2025 is approximately $82-90 million, the F-35B is about $105 million, and the F-35C is approximately $95-100 million.
