Lockheed Martin officially unveiled the first F-35A fighter jet destined for Finland, with delivery expected in early 2026 for pilot training.
Finland is acquiring a total of 66 F-35s to replace its F/A-18 Hornets, aiming to significantly enhance its defense capabilities and deter threats.
This strategic acquisition highlights Finland's recent pivot towards Western alignment and its 2023 NATO membership, establishing it with the largest F-35 fleet in northern Europe.
The aerospace and defense conglomerate staged a rollout ceremony at its F-35 production facility in Fort Worth, Texas, with government officials from Finland and the U.S. in attendance.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.