With these latest arrivals, Norway has taken delivery of nine F-35 jets in just three months. Six aircraft were previously delivered in November and December 2024, and they have since undergone inspection and been handed over to the Royal Norwegian Air Force.
Only three aircraft remain to be delivered, with their arrival expected in the spring. This brings Norway close to completing one of the largest mainland defence investments in its history.
Colonel Tord Aslaksen, head of the Fighter Aircraft Division at NDMA, expressed satisfaction with the delivery process. He noted that despite the complexity of developing and producing fifth-generation fighter jets, the programme remains less than a year behind the schedule set over a decade ago.
Aslaksen also praised the manufacturer’s ability to meet delivery expectations and the strong cooperation between international partners. He highlighted the joint efforts to address challenges in the production and supply chain.
Colonel Ole Marius Tørrisplass, commander of the 132nd Air Wing, welcomed the latest arrivals with enthusiasm. He emphasised that while the delivery of F-35s has become routine, the aircraft remains a cutting-edge resource, proving its value through missions such as Norway’s recent NATO deployment in Poland.
With the final deliveries approaching, the Norwegian Armed Forces are set to complete their transition to the F-35, further strengthening national and allied defence capabilities.
Source: NDMA.
