The arrival of the first F-35 Lightning II at RAF Marham, Norfolk, in 2018, marked a significant milestone as it was allocated to the historic Squadron 617 "Dambusters". The arrival of the first F-35 Lightning II at RAF Marham, Norfolk, in 2018, marked a significant milestone as it was allocated to the historic Squadron 617 "Dambusters". This squadron, renowned for its rich legacy, became the pioneering unit to be equipped with this cutting-edge fifth-generation aircraft. Now, further bolstering the United Kingdom's aerial prowess, a second squadron, the 809 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) known as the "Inmortals," has been activated to operate the F-35 Lightning II. The return of the Fleet Air Arm's 809 NAS comes after a hiatus spanning over 40 years, following its disbandment in late 1982.
Dating back to 1941, the 809 NAS saw its initial combat involvement operating the Fairey Fulmar in the Arctic. Its missions extended to engagements in Malta, North Africa, and various theaters of war until its decommissioning in 1982 while operating the Sea Harrier. The rebirth of this squadron was commemorated with a parade and display at RAF Marham.
Air Marshal Harvey Smyth, RAF Air and Space Commander, unveiled the strategic vision, aiming to have "two front-line squadrons of Lightnings at sea, totaling up to 24 aircraft" readily deployable by late 2025. This planning aligns with the slated readiness of the 809 NAS to deploy aboard the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales in 2025.
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