Singapore to Acquire F-35B Jets, Enhancing Military Capabilities
Singapore is set to receive its first four F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jets by the end of 2026. This acquisition will make Singapore the first country, apart from the United States, to operate these jets from land bases rather than aircraft carriers. The F-35B's capability to operate from highways and compact sites is particularly valuable for Singapore, given its limited land area. The decision to procure these jets is partly influenced by regional security concerns, including potential threats from China's military buildup in the South China Sea. Singapore's Defence Minister, Dr. Ng Eng Hen, emphasized the importance of the F-35's ability to operate away from vulnerable airbase infrastructure. The purchase is part of a broader strategy to replace the aging F-16 fleet and enhance Singapore's air defense capabilities. 
