A written answer in Parliament has confirmed that the two U.S. Air Force F-35 squadrons stationed at RAF Lakenheath have officially reached full operating capacity.
Responding to MP Ben Obese-Jecty, Defence Minister Alistair Carns stated plainly that “the two U.S. Air Force F-35 squadrons stationed at RAF Lakenheath have reached full operating capacity, which was achieved in autumn 2025.”
Earlier in the year, U.S. European Command chief Gen. Christopher Cavoli told the U.S. Senate that the first squadron was already operational and that the second would follow over the summer, with full capability expected by autumn.
Lakenheath’s F-35 Force
RAF Lakenheath hosts two fifth-generation fighter units under the U.S. Air Force’s 48th Fighter Wing:
- 495th Fighter Squadron
- 493rd Fighter Squadron
The 495th was reactivated in 2021, becoming the first permanently based overseas F-35A unit in U.S. Air Force history. Together, both squadrons are designated to field a combined fleet of 52 aircraft.
Operationally, these squadrons provide the United States with a continuous fifth-generation combat presence in Europe, a capability seen as crucial at a time when deterring Russia remains a priority. The F-35s have already forward-deployed to Poland and continue to train throughout the region alongside NATO partners.
About RAF Lakenheath
RAF Lakenheath is located in Suffolk near the village of Lakenheath, close to Mildenhall and Thetford, with its base perimeter running alongside Brandon. Although classified as a Royal Air Force station, it functions as a primary operating base for United States Air Force units.
The 48th Fighter Wing — known as the Liberty Wing — operates from Lakenheath and flies the F-15E Strike Eagle and F-35A Lightning II under USAFE–AFAFRICA.
In November 2024, personnel at RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall and RAF Feltwell reported multiple drone incursions. The drones varied in size and configuration, causing disruptions to local flying activity. Reports suggested that F-15Es were scrambled in response, and RAF Regiment units later deployed with the ORCUS counter-UAS system after further sightings during the night.
The Liberty Wing
The 48th Fighter Wing supports thousands of service members, civilian staff, and families across Lakenheath and Feltwell. It represents the largest American fighter presence in Europe and fields four combat-ready squadrons. The “Liberty” designation dates back to 1954 during the wing’s service in France, becoming formally recognized shortly thereafter.
