The Strategic Defence and Security Review published this week ahead of the chancellor's spending review announcement details the government's intention to invest in aircraft equipped with sensors to detect threats.
With the variety of air vehicles currently used by the Armed Forces said to be at risk of becoming outdated, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is looking to two fleets to replace them.
One of these is the Joint Strike Fighter, which offers versatility in some of the most challenging conflict scenarios.
The carrier-launching craft is fitted with electronic sensors that allow nearby threats to be identified and mapped, creating an image of the battle situation below.
Along with the Joint Strike Fighter, the land-launched Typhoon is to continue to receive investment.
Dr Liam Fox, secretary of state for defence, says: "The MoD must become as effective and as efficient as possible," adding that the front line of warfare in Afghanistan remains the government's priority.