Singapore will be the first in history to use F-35B fighters from ground bases

In 2019, Singapore signed a contract to purchase four fifth-generation F-35B Lightning II fighters with

deliveries until 2026 and the ability to increase the order to 12 units. As it became known, the country's Air Force took advantage of this option.

What is known

The cost of the first contract was $2.75 billion.The Singapore Ministry of Defense announced the purchase of eight more fifth-generation F-35B fighters. The decision was made after an evaluation of the F-35A and F-35B with the assistance of the US Air Force and the Marine Corps.

With the completion of F-35 evaluation, MINDEF will be exercising the option to purchase another eight F-35Bs.

These technologically advanced F-35Bs will ensure that the RSAF remains future-ready and effective in safeguarding Singapore’s skies. https://t.co/SFHB48zrdT

— The RSAF (@TheRSAF) February 24, 2023

Lockheed Martin fighters will come toto replace the fourth-generation F-16C / D Fighting Falcon aircraft, which will be decommissioned by the middle of the next decade. The F-35B is a short takeoff and vertical landing modification, which makes it more expensive than the standard F-35A.

Interestingly, Singapore will be the first country inhistory that will be used by the F3-35B Lightning II not from aircraft carriers, but from ground bases. The ability of an aircraft to take off without the need for a long runway would be useful in a hostile environment where the infrastructure of the base is damaged.

Source: The RSAF