Lightning Force takes shape

There is now real momentum behind the UK’s F-35 Lightning programme and 2018 will see further key milestones. Alan Warnes spoke with the Lightning Force commander about a pivotal year for the fifth-generation fighter. Intel Report A UK F-35B flies over RAF Marham on July 1, 2016, during the Lightning II’s first visit to the country. The fifth-generation Lightning II will be operated initially by No 617 Squadron, Royal Air Force, and subsequently by 809 Naval Air Squadron, ‘The Immortals’.