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5th Generation Fighter
Before the end of this decade, the F-35 Lightning will provide the ultimate punch of the Royal Navy’s Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. The F-35 is an Anglo-American joint effort, designed by the best and brightest in the two nations’ aircraft industries.
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The first British trials aircraft made its maiden flight in April 2012 and they had their first trials flying on to and off the deck of HMS Queen Elizabeth in 2018. Since then the jets – under the banner of legendary RAF 617 Squadron, but flown and maintained jointly by Royal Air Force and Fleet Air Arm personnel – have been gradually honing individual and collective combat skills.
Later this year, operational trials will take place with UK F-35s onboard HMS Queen Elizabeth during Westlant 19 in the USA.
The jet is the world’s first ‘fifth generation’ fighter (the WW2-era Meteor and Messerschmitt Me262 are first generation; the Harrier is third generation).
What I like best is the variety. On any given mission I could be monitoring threats, searching for targets, or even using weapons. I also get to be involved in planning and executing major operations – nothing beats the feeling of seeing it all come together successfully.
Whether we’re on ship or at the shore base, there’s always time to wind down. I might head to the mess for a drink or catch up on some sleep.
I’m a trained first-aider – it’s part of my role – so I’m out on call to help out if anyone gets into trouble and needs a hand.
I work on the Wildcat, operating from a Type 45 Destroyer. That means surveillance, so I’m feeding vital info back to the ship’s ops room.
A big part of my job is pre-flight planning, so I work with the Pilot and Commanding Officers to fine-tune the mission.
The Wildcat is a master of all trades, so we use it for search and rescue missions, like the recent refugee operations in the Med.
Training’s happening all the time, so I’m constantly honing my skills – whether in the classroom or in the air.
From divers to chefs, musicians to engineers, there’s a whole world of career options with the Royal Navy. Join us to be part of something special, protecting our nation’s interests, all over the world.
Be part of it
Performing to the very highest standards. Putting our ships and our people through their paces. Always striving for better. Training is what makes the Royal Navy the best in the world.
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