Integration of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter with the UK QUEEN ELIZABETH Class Aircraft Carrier

This paper presents a summary of the ongoing work to integrate the F-35B Joint Strike Fighter with the UK’s new QUEEN ELIZABETH Class Aircraft Carriers. This includes the development of a Ski-Jump Ramp to optimise launch performance, a Shipborne Rolling Vertical Landing (SRVL) manoeuvre to enhance bring-back and a summary of the environmental protection measures needed in the ship. The paper includes an overview of the key aspects of the QEC and F-35 programmes and their combined roles in providing the UK’s future carrier-strike capability. The design principles adopted for the ski-jump ramp are explained, along with practical considerations in its production. The SRVL manoeuvre is presented in terms of the criteria adopted and the new systems implemented for the Pilot and the Landing Signals Officer. Key areas where the F-35B environment has influenced the ship design are identified and the methods of demonstrating suitability are explained.