US selects RAF Lakenheath As First European F-35 Base

The U.S. Air Force has chosen Royal Air Force (RAF) Lakenheath in the U.K. as its first base for the F-35A in Europe.

The base is home to F-15 squadrons and will host the fifth-generation stealth fighter. The decision was based on studies of the base's available air space, infrastructure and combined training opportunities.

Gen. Frank Gorenc, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander, said "The F-35, a true fifth-generation fighter, gives teeth to our ability to support collective defense of Europe and its partners".

The jets will begin arriving in 2020, with two fighter squadrons expected to arrive in multiple phases. The squadrons will include 24 jets each.

"Lakenheath is the perfect base for the perfect weapon system in the perfect country", said Col. Robert Novotny, 48th fighter wing commander was quoted as saying by AirForceTimes.