This new facility is part of Finland’s industrial cooperation within the F-35 fighter programme. Expected to be completed in autumn 2025, the site will enhance Finland’s ability to maintain and service its future fleet of F-35 multi-role fighters.
Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen emphasised that developing domestic maintenance capabilities will strengthen Finland’s military readiness. Having F135 engine maintenance in Finland ensures that the Air Force’s F-35 engines remain operational under all conditions.
The Defence Properties Agency is overseeing the construction, and the facilities will be operated by Patria, Finland’s strategic defence partner. Patria has extensive experience maintaining and repairing various defence system engines and components at its Linnavuori site.
Initially, the new facilities will serve as assembly lines for the engines before transitioning into full-scale maintenance operations. Maintenance activities will continue in Nokia throughout the entire service life of Finland’s F-35 fleet.
The construction and operational standards follow requirements set by the F-35 programme and U.S. engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney. Regular inspections have confirmed that the infrastructure meets all necessary criteria for engine assembly and maintenance.
In addition to the maintenance facility, Finland is investing in broader infrastructure upgrades across all Air Force bases. The Defence Properties Agency is managing these developments, with both regional and national construction companies involved in the projects.
The Linnavuori site will play a crucial role in Finland’s direct industrial cooperation within the F-35 programme. Finland’s involvement is unique, as some of the industrial tasks assigned to Patria have not been previously conducted outside the United States.
Another key aspect of Finland’s F-35 industrial cooperation is the large-scale production of front fuselage sections, landing gear doors, and other components at Patria’s facility in Jämsä. These parts will be used in the global F-35 programme, alongside component maintenance capabilities.
The primary focus of Finland’s industrial cooperation is to build independent maintenance capabilities and ensure national security of supply. The project is expected to generate 4,500 direct and 1,500 indirect job-years, contributing significantly to the national economy.
The industrial cooperation agreement aims to develop and sustain critical defence and security technologies while enhancing Finland’s national defence capabilities. Ensuring domestic expertise and infrastructure for F-35 maintenance supports both military readiness and long-term security.
Source: Finnish Ministry of Defence.
