Sir, – I write this having today (15th June 2024) watched the RAF flypast following the Trooping the Colour ceremony and I wondered what the commentator, Clare Balding, would say about the F-35Bs just as four flew over Buckingham Palace. She referred to them as Lightning jets, part of the Dam Busters Squadron, based at RAF Marham and commanded by Wing Commander Stewart Campbell. And then she said this: “They can come off aircraft carriers as well.” Well, that says it all, doesn’t it? Clearly, these are not Navy jets. Operating from carriers seems to be a part-time activity. Certainly, that’s w…
