Up to five F-35 joint strike fighter aircraft are planned to participate in the flying display at the Farnborough International Airshow this summer. Continuing a long tradition of aviation firsts for the event, this will be the first opportunity for many of the organisations involved in the development of the aircraft to showcase their achievements in the making of the aircraft to a major international trade audience.

Speaking about the announcement, FIL Commercial Director, Amanda Stainer, said, “The fact that the UK MoD, US Marine Corps and US Air Force have chosen the Farnborough International Airshow to demonstrate the aircraft is testament to the show’s standing as a major international aerospace event. The F-35 joint strike fighter programme is very significant for many companies that participate in the show and they will be very excited at the opportunity to demonstrate their participation in the programme.”

In the last few days both the US Marine Corps and US Air Force have announced that they plan to bring both the F-35A and F-35B aircraft to demonstrate at the show, Furthermore, at least one British jet is expected to participate. Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said.  “The F-35s are the most advanced fast jets in the world. Whether operating from land or from one of our two new aircraft carriers - the UK’s largest ever - they will ensure we have a cutting edge and formidable fighting force.

“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 per cent of every aircraft; and for the British public who will have their first opportunity to see this remarkable aircraft in action.”

As well as during the trade show, the F-35 will also participate in the flying display at the public weekend allowing the general public to enjoy the spectacle of this major new aircraft. Responding to the news, Shaun Ormrod, Chief Executive for Farnborough International Ltd said, “Its great news that we can welcome the F-35 to the show, visitors at the public weekend will be amongst the first to see this aircraft outside the US. A full size replica will be on static display while the real thing will fly in from RAF Fairford to take part in the flying display. This, together with the introduction of The UK Drone Show – another Farnborough first, will make the public weekend of the Farnborough International Airshow a show not to be missed.”