Singapore firms up option for eight more F-35Bs
Singaporean F-15SGs fly alongside F-35Bs from the USMC in January 2023. (Photo: Singapore MINDEF)
With Singapore confirming eight more F-35B fighters, it will eventually have a fleet of 12, plus the possibility of more being added later.
Minister of Defence Ng Eng Hen announced during a parliamentary budget session on 24 February that Singapore would purchase eight more F-35B fighters.
When the F-35’s selection was first announced in 2019, Ng said an initial purchase would be made to fully evaluate the jet’s capabilities before deciding on a full fleet.
Following the signing of the letter of acceptance for four F-35Bs in 2020 – with another eight on option – Singapore was given access to F-35 users-only information and facilities, which allowed a series of comprehensive evaluations to be conducted.
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