Singapore Joins the Elite F‑35 Club in the Asia‑Pacific
Singapore is set to become the fourth nation in the Asia‑Pacific region to operate the fifth‑generation Lockheed Martin F‑35 stealth fighter, joining Australia, Japan and South Korea. The initial batch of F‑35B aircraft is expected to enter service later this year, marking a significant step for the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).
What the 20‑Jet Order Means for the RSAF
The Singaporean deal comprises four F‑35B jets delivered by year‑end, an additional eight F‑35B slated for 2028 and eight F‑35A scheduled for delivery around 2030. In total, the RSAF will field 20 F‑35s – a mix of short‑seize‑off/vertical‑landing (STOVL) and conventional‑take‑off variants.
General‑Major Kelvin Fan, chief of the RSAF, highlights that the F‑35A offers longer range and payload capacity for sustained missions, while the F‑35B provides unparalleled operational flexibility with its STOVL capability.
Combined with Singapore’s existing fleet of 40 F‑15SG fighters and roughly 60 upgraded F‑16V aircraft, the new jets will give the RSAF a decisive edge in Southeast Asian air combat.
Asia‑Pacific F‑35 Market: Numbers and Trends
Lockheed Martin projects that the Asia‑Pacific will operate **more than 300 F‑35s by 2030**. The regional breakdown includes:
- Australia – 72 F‑35A (largest non‑U.S. Operator).
- Japan – order for 147 F‑35A and F‑35B variants, set to surpass Australia’s fleet.
- South Korea – 40 F‑35A already delivered, plus 20 on order.
- United States – stationed F‑35s in Japan and Alaska add to the regional count.
These figures underscore the Asia‑Pacific as a key growth market for the F‑35 program.
Strategic Advantages of Mixed A and B Variants
The dual‑variant approach gives Singapore the ability to operate from both conventional runways and austere forward bases. The F‑35B can launch from short decks or ship‑borne platforms, while the F‑35A maximises strike range and payload for deep‑penetration missions.
Regional Maintenance and Sustainment Hubs
Two of the four global “heavy‑maintenance, repair and overhaul” (MRO) sites for the F‑35 are located in the Asia‑Pacific – one in Australia and another in Japan. The remaining facilities sit in Italy and the United States, ensuring a robust support network for operators across the region.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the market looks promising, potential new customers face hurdles. Recent attempts by Taiwan and Thailand to acquire the F‑35 encountered setbacks. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed interest in courting India as a prospective buyer.
Lockheed Martin delivered a **record 191 F‑35s in 2025** and expects **156 deliveries this year**, reflecting strong production momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which F‑35 variants is Singapore acquiring?
- Four F‑35B now, eight more F‑35B in 2028, and eight F‑35A around 2030, for a total of 20 jets.
- How does the F‑35 enhance Singapore’s air power?
- The mix of STOVL and conventional variants adds flexibility, while advanced sensors and stealth improve survivability and strike capability.
- What is the projected number of F‑35s in the Asia‑Pacific by 2030?
- Lockheed Martin estimates over 300 aircraft will be operating in the region.
- Where are the regional F‑35 maintenance hubs?
- One hub is in Australia and another in Japan; the other two are in Italy and the United States.
- Are there other countries in the pipeline for F‑35 purchases?
- Potential interest has been noted from India, while Taiwan and Thailand have faced recent setbacks.
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Related reading: F‑35 growth in the Asia‑Pacific
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