Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:11:55-2:12:50

F-35B strike aviation across several navies

The Royal Navy built around F-35B strike aviation, while Italy and Japan adapted Harrier-era or helicopter-carrier designs to the same logic.

Amphibious Assault ShipsF-35BItalian NavyJapan Maritime Self-Defense ForceLight Aircraft CarriersQueen Elizabeth Class Aircraft CarriersRoyal Navy
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Question

Have navies considered using the F-35B to give sea-control or assault ships major strike capability?

Short answer

Yes; Britain, Italy, and Japan have built or adapted ships for it, while Australia has considered but not adopted the concept.

Notes

The Royal Navy's Queen Elizabeth class is built around the F-35B as a strike aircraft. Italy is among the other navies following the progression from Harriers to the F-35B. Japan is adapting helicopter carriers for the aircraft. Australia has considered using its Canberra class, but the delivered ships omit features that would have supported that role.