MoD invest over £160 million into jet maintenance at RAF Marham in Norfolk
The MoD says it will also sustain 130 jobs in Norfolk
Last updated 4th Apr 2023
The Ministry of Defence is investing more than £160 million pounds in maintaining fighter jets at RAF Marham, Norfolk.
The contract will see BAE Systems deliver technical support and training for UK’s fleet of F-35 fighter jets for next four and a half years.
The MOD says it will also sustain 140 jobs in the UK - 130 directly at the Norfolk base.
It's hoped the contact will give those on the base more freedom to operate the aircraft, increase the number of flying hours available and deliver important mission planning, training, and maintenance capabilities.
Minister for Defence Procurement, Alex Chalk KC, said:
"Our F-35 Lightning stealth jets are a formidable fighting force, putting us at the cutting-edge of air-borne military capability.
"Supporting more than 100 jobs in the East of England, this investment will ensure our jets remain equipped for combat operations around the world."
The F-35 Lightning is a stealth aircraft flown by both the Royal Navy and the RAF.
Although based at RAF Marham in Norfolk, it also operates from the UK’s two new Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers and other land bases.