Background

In Mar 2019, the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) announced the purchase of an initial four F-35B fighter aircraft, with an option to acquire eight more subsequently. Following an extensive and robust evaluation, MINDEF will exercise the option and purchase eight additional F-35Bs, which is necessary to enable the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) to strengthen its next-generation capabilities as part of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) 2040 transformation. The F-35Bs will replace the aging F-16s, which will progressively draw down after reaching obsolescence from mid-2030s.

Extensive and Robust Evaluation

After the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) was signed in 2020, MINDEF/SAF's F-35 project team comprising personnel from the RSAF and Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), were given access to F-35 users-only information and facilities to conduct a series of comprehensive and robust evaluations. First, in-depth technical and engineering discussions with the manufacturer and other F-35 users were conducted to better understand and determine the integration of the F-35B into the SAF's warfighting system. Second, the RSAF engaged in training and professional exchanges with other F-35 users, to learn and better harness the full suite of F-35B capabilities. High fidelity F-35 simulators were also used to enhance understanding of the aircraft's characteristics and operational capabilities. Lastly, the project team participated in F-35 conferences and focused study opportunities to glean F-35 best practices from the manufacturer and other F-35 users. These efforts allowed the RSAF and DSTA to fully understand the F-35B's capabilities and its compatibility with the SAF's warfighting systems, before making an informed decision to exercise the option and acquire eight additional F-35Bs.

Capabilities of the F-35B Fighter Aircraft

  The key capabilities of the F-35Bs are as follows:

1. Stealth. Designed with advanced features such as radar absorbent material and systems with low observable technology, the F-35B is able to evade enemy detection and operate in contested environments. Its aligned edges^[1], reduced engine signature, and internal carriage of weapons and fuel contribute to its stealth performance.

2. Short Take-Off & Vertical Landing (STOVL). The F-35B can take off in very short distances and perform vertical landing on areas smaller than conventional runways. The unique STOVL capabilities provide important operational flexibility given Singapore's land scarcity.

3. Advanced Sensor Suite. The F-35B is equipped with advanced sensors which allow it to collect, analyse, and fuse information gathered. It can share such information, providing unprecedented situational awareness to friendly assets to enhance the survivability and lethality of SAF forces. Combined with its stealth capability, the F-35B allows us to see and respond first, through its early detection of targets and the ability to engage targets before it is detected.

Technical Specifications of the F-35B