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<p>The Lightning Force is configured to be flexible and interchangeable as individual
aircraft cycle between the Forward Fleet and periods of maintenance. Squadrons will
gain aircraft from the available Forward Fleet in line with their readiness cycle,
expeditionary deployment requirements, and associated training and exercises. The
size of Air Groups for every Carrier deployment are tailored based on the overall
balance of Defence requirements at that time.</p><p>Specific airframes are not allocated
to specific Squadrons on a permanent basis. As is normal across all aircraft fleets,
as part of the readiness cycle and routine fleet management across the Front-Line
Squadrons and Operational Conversion Unit, the exact number of airframes operated
by individual units varies day-to-day. A Squadron held at Very High Readiness will
require a full complement of airframes, while a Squadron on lower readiness or undertaking
post Operational deployment leave will require fewer airframes for day-to-day pilot
currency and competency requirements.</p><p>Our plan remains to procure 138 aircraft
through the life of the programme. This procurement is phased; our first acquisition
phase of 48 aircraft is underway at present, with the second phase consisting of a
further 27 aircraft now progressing through the approvals process, which will form
the basis of our third Front-line Lightning Squadron with deliveries expected to continue
into 2033. The Ministry of Defence will seek approval for further acquisition phases
at the appropriate time.</p>
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