LAST night more than 100 spectators watched the arrival of Britian’s newest £70m stealth jump jet at RAF Fairford.

Braving the miserable weather, aircraft enthusiasts – including Neil Cloughley, whose five-man team at Faradair in Tetbury are currently working on their ground-breaking tri-wing Bio-Electric-Hybrid-Aircraft (BEHA) – watched as Britain’s first Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II flew in to land, accompanied by two US Marine counterparts.

The stealth fighter jet, described as the most advanced warplane ever built by experts, arrived at around 8.30pm on Wednesday at the Cotswolds base, following a nine-hour transatlantic flight, and will be performing at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) next month, its first appearance at an air show outside the US.

The F-35 almost made its debut in 2014 before engine trouble meant the whole fleet was grounded and all air show appearances cancelled.

Britain plans to have 24 of the multi-role combat aircraft operating from carriers by 2023.

Michael Fallon, defence secretary, said: “The F-35s are the most advanced fast jets in the world. Whether operating from land or from one of our two new aircraft carriers - the UK’s largest ever - they will ensure we have a cutting edge and formidable fighting force.

“The plan for F-35 aircraft to take part in air shows here in the UK this summer is a significant milestone – for our RAF and Royal Navy personnel training hard to fly the F-35; for British industry who are contributing an impressive 15 per cent of every aircraft; and for the British public who will have their first opportunity to see this remarkable aircraft in action.”

RIAT organisers anticipate that examples of the F-35B will demonstrate the Harrier-like ‘hover’ capability required for operation from austere land bases and aircraft carriers.

Andy Armstrong, RIAT chief executive, said: “No doubt, the sight of F-35s in the sky will be quite common for future generations but this summer, all those who attend our air show will enjoy a first glimpse of that future.

“Over the years, the Air Tattoo has featured the UK and European debuts of some of the world’s most iconic aircraft but few will have been as important to the UK’s future defence capability as the F-35.

“I am sure many people will want to join us to witness this piece of aviation history being made.”

Visit airtattoo.com for more information.