The latest arrivals follow the delivery of two F-35s last month, demonstrating steady progress toward the target of 52 aircraft. Brigadier Jarle Nergård, Head of Air Capacities at the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency, stated: “After these deliveries, six aircraft remain to be brought home. We aim to deliver all 52 F-35s ordered to the Air Force by summer 2025.”
Norway’s F-35 fleet has been operational and combat-ready for five years, fulfilling daily missions and playing a critical role in NATO’s “Quick Reaction Alert” (QRA) for almost three years. The aircraft are not only vital for national defence but also for Norway’s commitments to the alliance.
As the new jets arrived in Norway, Norwegian F-35s, supported by NASAMS air defence systems and 100 soldiers, prepared for deployment to Rzeszów in Poland. This mission aims to protect the key logistical hub facilitating civilian and military support to Ukraine. General Major Øivind Gunnerud, Chief of the Air Force, highlighted the fleet’s strategic value, stating: “This shows the significance of the F-35 for the security of the alliance. We are very pleased to receive six new aircraft at Ørland in 2024 and look forward to reaching the critical milestone of a full combat fleet in a few months.”
The aircraft were flown to Ørland from the United States by pilots from the Defence Contract Management Agency (DCMA). Upon arrival, the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency will conduct acceptance inspections before transferring the jets to active duty in the Norwegian Air Force.
Source: NDMA.
