Post by andypspotter on Jan 10, 2019 22:33:26 GMT
Defence Minister Gavin Williamson issued today's warning shortly after declaring Britain's first nine F-35B Lightning II fighter jets ready for combat.
The US-built jets, which cost £92m each, are expected to revive Britain's ability to launch sea-borne operations from aircraft carriers.
The planes can reach speeds of 1,200mph and can land vertically, similar to the Harrier jump jets, allowing them to land with a heavier load.
Mr Williamson said: "Our nation is moving into a new era outside the EU, and our huge achievements in air capability make our commitment to a role on the world stage clear to both our allies and our enemies.
"The incredible F-35 jets are ready for operations, a transformed Typhoon has the power to dominate the skies into the 2040s and we continue to look even further into an ambitious future."
The US-built jets, which cost £92m each, are expected to revive Britain's ability to launch sea-borne operations from aircraft carriers.
The planes can reach speeds of 1,200mph and can land vertically, similar to the Harrier jump jets, allowing them to land with a heavier load.
Mr Williamson said: "Our nation is moving into a new era outside the EU, and our huge achievements in air capability make our commitment to a role on the world stage clear to both our allies and our enemies.
"The incredible F-35 jets are ready for operations, a transformed Typhoon has the power to dominate the skies into the 2040s and we continue to look even further into an ambitious future."