The United States has deployed F-35 fighter jets to the Korean Peninsula as part of the ongoing Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercise, signalling a potential shift in its military posture in East Asia. Reports suggest <a title="US" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/business/qatar-s-1-3t-deal-deepens-ties-with-united-states/11608" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Washington</a> is weighing the option of permanent stationing of these fifth-generation aircraft in <a title="South Korea" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/south-korea-nato-to-boost-defence-ties/15727" target="_blank" rel="noopener">South Korea</a>, citing the growing threat from North Korea.
Around 10 F-35 variants, including the F-35A of the US Air Force and the F-35B of the US Marine Corps, have been temporarily deployed to Kunsan Air Base. These aircraft are engaged in high-intensity training with South Korean counterparts, focusing on defensive counterair manoeuvres and combined readiness.
While the F-35A offers extended range and payload from conventional runways, the F-35B brings flexibility with its short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) capability, allowing operations from ships and austere bases. Their presence underscores the allies&rsquo; intent to deter potential provocations and bolster security in the region.
According to defence sources, the US may initially station one squadron &mdash; around 20 F-35s&mdash; in South Korea, with the option of rotationally deploying another. This move, if confirmed, would complement the older F-16 fleet already based in the country.
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The deployment comes amid rising tensions, with Pyongyang dismissing the drills as &ldquo;futile&rdquo;, even as Seoul and Washington strengthen training against emerging threats, including drone warfare, GPS jamming, cyberattacks, and advanced missile systems. The UFS exercise involves 18,000 South Korean troops and a similar number of US personnel, although several planned field drills have been postponed due to intense summer heat.
The possible permanent deployment of F-35s aligns with Washington&rsquo;s emphasis on &ldquo;capabilities over numbers&rdquo;, as recently outlined by the USFK leadership. It also reflects a strategic balancing act, as US forces continue to manage deployments elsewhere, including the Middle East.
For South Korea, the expanded role of the F-35 is not only about air power projection but also about reinforcing deterrence on a peninsula where tensions remain unpredictable and the risk of escalation persists.
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US F-35 fighter jets deployed in Korea for joint drills

Amid rising tensions, US may keep F-35 jets in Korea beyond joint exercise phase

US F-35 jets eye permanent Korea stationing

Amid rising tensions, US may keep F-35 jets in Korea beyond joint exercise phase

August 25, 2025 | 10:19 IST