Royal Navy Fast Jets Return to Aircraft Carrier After 15 Years for Key Training Exercise

For the first time in nearly 15 years, a Royal Navy fast jet squadron is back operating from an aircraft carrier. F-35B Lightning stealth fighters from 809 Naval Air Squadron, alongside RAF Squadron 617, famously known as The Dambusters, have joined HMS Prince of Wales for crucial training exercises in the North Sea. This month-long training marks a significant step for both the squadron and the carrier, as they prepare for a major eight-month global deployment in 2025.

The fifth-generation F-35B jets made a short journey from their base at RAF Marham to the deck of the 65,000-tonne warship. Over the coming weeks, personnel will either learn how to operate on a carrier for the first time or refresh their skills after time spent away from the sea.

Commander Nick Smith, the commanding officer of 809 Naval Air Squadron, emphasized the importance of this milestone. The squadron, newly formed at the end of last year, is the second frontline F-35B squadron in the UK.

"This is a pivotal moment for 809 Naval Air Squadron, a critical phase in preparing for next year’s deployment with the carrier strike group," said Commander Smith. "Leading a squadron with such a rich history is an honour, and operating from a carrier for the first time is a significant achievement for us as we establish ourselves as an F-35B squadron."

Like the other Lightning formations at RAF Marham—617 and 207 Squadrons—809 NAS comprises personnel equally drawn from the Royal Air Force and Fleet Air Arm. For the majority of the squadron, including ground crew and pilots, this deployment marks their first time at sea.

Lieutenant Commander Armstrong, an F-35 pilot, acknowledged the challenges of operating the advanced jets from a carrier. "While the F-35 is leaps ahead of the Harrier, working with it in a carrier environment presents its own set of challenges," he explained.

As 809 NAS personnel train on board, the goal is to forge a unified team, mastering everything from flight deck operations to the maintenance and arming of the cutting-edge F-35B Lightning aircraft.