Meteor Missile: Enhancing F-35B Fighter Jet Capabilities
**The United States and the United Kingdom are collaborating to integrate the Meteor missile into the F-35B fighter jets, marking a significant step forward in aerial combat capabilities. Recently, the US Marine Corps successfully conducted its inaugural test flights with the Meteor air-to-air missile aboard the F-35B Lightning II. This initiative aligns with efforts to equip the Royal Air Force (RAF) fleet of F-35Bs with cutting-edge weaponry.**
The test flights took place at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in the United States, involving the joint efforts of the US and UK governments alongside the Defence Equipment and Support Agency (DE&S) and industrial partners, including Lockheed Martin and MBDA. Reports from Eurasian Times suggest that visuals have emerged showcasing an F-35B outfitted with an AIM-120 AMRAAM alongside a Meteor missile in its weapons bay.
Initially, these tests were aimed at collecting environmental data, laying the groundwork for the integration of British-made munitions onto the F-35 platform. Air Commodore Al Roberts, head of RAF Air-to-Air Missiles, emphasized this achievement, stating, “This milestone is evidence of effective collaboration between multinational governments and industry partners. The integration of Meteor onto the F-35B will significantly enhance the air combat capabilities of the UK and its allies.”
Looking ahead, the UK Ministry of Defence announced plans in January 2024 to equip F-35B fighter jets with the Meteor missile and the SPEAR 3 precision-guided munitions. The integration process is projected to conclude by the end of the decade, ensuring that these advanced capabilities are fully operational.
Currently, RAF F-35B jets are armed with AIM-120 AMRAAM and ASRAAM air-to-air missiles, as well as Paveway 4 precision-guided munitions. The introduction of the Meteor missile is anticipated to bolster the effectiveness of these aircraft in air combat, thereby enhancing the UK’s contributions to NATO air policing operations.
In a related development, France has addressed Turkey’s request for the Meteor missile, which is also set to be utilized by the KF-21 fighter jet, signifying the growing global interest in this advanced weapon system.
