Norway Becomes First F-35 Partner Nation to Receive its Full Order

Lockheed Martin has recently finalized the delivery of the 51st and 52nd F-35A aircraft to the Royal Norwegian Air Force, marking a significant milestone in both the history of the aircraft and Norway's defence capabilities. This achievement establishes Norway as the first partner nation within the F-35 program to complete its entire program of record, which encompasses a predetermined number of aircraft deliveries as part of the broader international collaboration on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter project.

"The F-35 is the world's best fighter jet, and I am very pleased that we will receive the last of the 52 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin that Norway has ordered," said Tore O. Sandvik, Norwegian Minister of Defence. "The aircraft ensures that we can safeguard Norwegian sovereignty and maintain even better control over our areas on land, at sea and in the air."

The advanced capabilities and enhanced interoperability of the F-35 significantly bolster Norway's sovereign defence and collaboration with key European allies, including its closest Nordic neighbors. The F-35 fleet will be instrumental in safeguarding the High North and supporting NATO missions.

"Norway's F-35 fleet enhances interoperability across the Norwegian Armed Forces' defense systems, improving situational awareness of the entire force and strengthening transatlantic security," said Chauncey McIntosh, vice president and general manager of the F-35 program at Lockheed Martin. "We are honored to build upon our more than 50-year partnership with Norway, ensuring the Royal Norwegian Air Force remains ahead of emerging threats to protect security for Norway and its allies for decades to come."

As a pivotal element of the battlespace for 20 allied nations, the F-35 fosters peace through strength in the 21st century. Having surpassed one million flight hours and with a global fleet exceeding 1,150 aircraft, the F-35 delivers unparalleled capabilities, enhancing deterrence for allies globally. F-35s are operational at 48 bases worldwide, with 10 nations hosting operations on their home soil.

As adversaries swiftly progress in technological advancements, the F-35's unparalleled connectivity and its capability to collaborate with assets across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains are crucial for ensuring the security of our skies both now and in the future.