Defense manufacturer Patria has signed a services contract to develop capabilities for Finland’s F-35 program.
The contract lists the company’s maintenance reliability and technology development as some of the key services needed by the combat fleet.
Patria is also expected to collaborate with the country’s industrial sector on plans to build large-scale assemblies of the F-35’s fuselage, engines and other structural parts.
Work on the agreement will continue until 2031, with an estimated direct employment impact of 600 person-years.
Preparation for service
Patria F-35 Chief Program Officer petri hepora He said the move is a step forward in ensuring fighter jet readiness.
“This agreement provides the Finnish Armed Forces with a national solution for F-35 maintenance and service capabilities, which is important for Finland’s supply security,” he added.
The company also signed contracts with the Finnish Ministry of Defense and F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin to ensure the necessary industry participation to continue production of the jet.
Fleet review
Finland’s F-35 program began in 2021 with an order for 64 F-35A fighter jets from Lockheed Martin.
The deal is worth 8.4 billion euros ($9.5 billion) and is Finland’s largest arms deal in history.
The new aircraft will replace aging aircraft, some of which have been in service since the 1980s.