Air Force

US Air Force May Deploy F-35’s to Europe Next Summer

In a show of US force and capability, it is reported that the Pentagon is considering deploying F-35’s to Europe next year. If this actually happens it would be the first operation overseas deployment of the aircraft. Last year the Air Force sent a deployment of F-22’s to Romania.

“Now that the F-35 has been declared combat capable, we will deploy our newest fighter to Europe in the not too distant future,” said Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James during a speech at the Atlantic Council. “Matter of fact, if I were a betting woman, I wouldn’t at all be surprised if the F-35 didn’t make an appearance, perhaps, next summer. The unique combination of stealth, situational and sensor fusion will play an important role in reassuring allies and providing deterrence.”

“Russia is a country that does understand force,” she said. “At a time like this, at a time when I believe they are pushing and poking and testing, I think the alliance needs to demonstrate that resolve and show force.” – Defense News

You've reached your daily free article limit.

Subscribe and support our veteran writing staff to continue reading.

Get Full Ad-Free Access For Just $0.50/Week

Enjoy unlimited digital access to our Military Culture, Defense, and Foreign Policy coverage content and support a veteran owned business. Already a subscriber?

In a show of US force and capability, it is reported that the Pentagon is considering deploying F-35’s to Europe next year. If this actually happens it would be the first operation overseas deployment of the aircraft. Last year the Air Force sent a deployment of F-22’s to Romania.

“Now that the F-35 has been declared combat capable, we will deploy our newest fighter to Europe in the not too distant future,” said Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James during a speech at the Atlantic Council. “Matter of fact, if I were a betting woman, I wouldn’t at all be surprised if the F-35 didn’t make an appearance, perhaps, next summer. The unique combination of stealth, situational and sensor fusion will play an important role in reassuring allies and providing deterrence.”

“Russia is a country that does understand force,” she said. “At a time like this, at a time when I believe they are pushing and poking and testing, I think the alliance needs to demonstrate that resolve and show force.” – Defense News

Watch the First F-35’s in Europe

Of course, a new administration is about to take control of the US government and all of this could change pending the decisions of a new President and Secretary of the Air Force.

Featured Image by MSgt John Nimmo Sr. [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

 

 

COMMENTS

You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.

More from SOFREP

REAL EXPERTS.
REAL NEWS.

Join SOFREP for insider access and analysis.

TRY 14 DAYS FREE

Already a subscriber? Log In