Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 10
10
Acknowledged
F-35 availability and training significantly impacted by 2025 Carrier Strike Group deployment
Conclusion
The Department also told us that the 2025 CSG deployment, required for FOC declaration, had impacted availability before the deployment and would impact availability for some weeks after the deployment, because of the need for additional maintenance.16 The National Audit Office’s report noted that the impact of the deployment on operational readiness might last for several months.17 The flexibility of the training squadron was also impacted by the reduced number of aircraft available in the UK during the deployment.18 In order that FOC actually means what it says careful evaluation is needed in future to avoid premature unsubstantiated announcements. F-35 capability and availability
Government Response Summary
The department acknowledges the factors affecting aircraft availability and is increasing the number of aircraft engineers, supporting the US-led F-35 Joint Programme Office, and planning further investments in F-35 technical infrastructure.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
2.5 Aircraft availability is dependent upon a number of factors including workforce, spares, infrastructure and supporting enablers. Now the department has a better understanding of operating and maintaining a fifth-generation aircraft, the number of aircraft engineers is being increased to align with Force readiness requirements. Although the department has funded additional engineering positions, it will take time to recruit and train the necessary personnel. The UK is also supporting the US-led F-35 Joint Programme Office in efforts to reset the Global Support Solution to improve performance and increase spares availability. The department is planning further investments in F-35 technical infrastructure at RAF Marham and enhancements to supporting enablers through improvement initiatives.