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13h ago

Finland Unveils First F-35A in Fort Worth Rollout

The rollout starts the acceptance phase that leads to U.S. training before 2026 deliveries.

Finland's first F-35A
F-35 JSF from the Netherlands. Image Credit: Lockheed Martin.
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Overview

  • The first Finnish F-35A, serial JF-501, was presented on December 16, 2025, at Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth facility with senior Finnish and U.S. officials in attendance.
  • JF-501 completed its factory maiden flight on December 8, 2025, and now proceeds to Defense Contract Management Agency verification before handover.
  • Following acceptance, the aircraft will relocate to Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas for Finnish pilot and maintainer training.
  • Initial aircraft are scheduled to arrive in Finland in 2026, with initial operational capability targeted by end-2027 and full operational capability by 2030 as F/A-18 Hornets are phased out.
  • Finland’s HX program covers 64 F-35As, with industrial participation including Patria’s sustainment work and an F135 engine service center planned near Nokia to bolster long-term support.