Additional F-35As for Australia

摘要

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced on April 23, that a further 58 Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning Us will be acquired for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Additional to 14 approved in 2009, it will take the country's commitment to 72 aircraft, which is sufficient to replace three fighter squadrons and an operational conversion unit of McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A/B Hornets. A decision on a further tranche of 14 aircraft to replace the RAAF's F/A-18F Super Hornets will be made later. "Together with the Super Hornet and Growler electronic warfare aircraft, the F-35A will ensure Australia maintains a regional combat edge," according to Prime Minister Abbott. "It will allow the RAAF to conduct decisive, long-range strikes while remaining hidden from adversaries. The F-35A will also provide a major boost to the Australian Defence Force's intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities."