Singapore’s Minister for Defence, Ng Eng Hen, visited Lockheed Martin’s F-35 fighter jet production line in Texas, USA. The first F-35 jet ordered by Singapore will be delivered as scheduled by the end of next year.
Lianhe Zaobao reported on the 12th that Singapore’s Ministry of Defence announced in 2019 the purchase of four F-35B jets, followed by an additional eight of the same model in 2023, and in 2024 announced the addition of eight F-35A jets, bringing the total to 20.
The F-35B is capable of short takeoff and vertical landing like a helicopter, making it suitable for Singapore’s small land area; the F-35A, on the other hand, requires a conventional runway for takeoff and landing, but can carry more fuel and weapons.
According to a Ministry of Defence press release, Ng Eng Hen, who is currently on a study visit to the US, was accompanied by Major-General Kelvin Khong, Chief of Air Force, to visit Lockheed Martin’s production line in Fort Worth, Texas, on the 12th Singapore time. He also received a briefing on the F-35 program, its capabilities, and its production process.
The Ministry of Defence stated that procuring the F-35 is a long-term strategy for Singapore, aiming to build a next-generation fighter fleet for the Republic of Singapore Air Force. This diversified fleet of F-35A, F-35B, and F-15SG jets will meet Singapore’s operational needs and maintain a strong combat capability to safeguard Singapore’s airspace.