The F-35A continues to dominate European fighter procurements. (Photo: Norwegian MoD)
Finland has selected Lockheed Martin’s F-35 for the country’s €9.4 billion ($10.9 billion) HX programme, bolstering the manufacturer’s remarkable European procurement track record.
The decision means Finland will now order 64 F-35A CTOL Block 4 standard jets to replace ageing Boeing F/A-18 C/D Hornets, with initial deliveries of the new aircraft set to begin in 2026.
Setting out the reasons behind the selection of the F-35A, Finland explained that the fifth-generation fighter was ‘the best’ in the category of military capability and met security of supply, industrial participation and affordability requirements.
‘The F-35 operating and sustainment costs
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