809 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) of the British Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm (RNFAA) has been reactivated as the UK's second frontline F-35B Lightning squadron. The squadron, known as the "Immortals," originally formed in 1941, was recommissioned on December 8, 2023, at RAF Marham. This marked a significant step in expanding the UK's carrier strike capabilities. The squadron's aircraft, including the F-35B ZM151, now feature the distinctive 809 NAS emblem and modex. The reactivation of 809 NAS underscores the integration of Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel and assets, enhancing the UK's operational readiness and global reach.

Designed to meet the US Military's requirement for a multi-role Joint Strike Fighter, the F-35 was first flown on December 15, 2006. This single-seat fighter is one of the most advanced aircraft of our time, said to be four times more effective at air-to-air combat and eight times more effective at air-to-ground combat than any other existing aircraft. It uses a low-maintenance stealth technology, and some versions have an innovative Lift System, which gives the F-35 vertical take-off and landing capabilities. The US plans to buy a total of 2,443 F-35s at a cost of $323 billion, which makes the F-35 the most expensive defense program in history.

Info:  F-35B Lightning II - RNFAA No.809 NAS Immortals, ZM151, RAF Marham, England