Finland’s first F-35A, serial JF‑501, flew its maiden sortie on Dec. 8 from Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth facility, marking a key step toward delivery of 64 jets under the roughly $9 billion HX procurement as Lockheed accelerates production for the Finnish Air Force.
Discovered |
Briefing
Confirms concrete progress in Finland’s ~ $9 billion HX fighter buy: the first of 64 F‑35As (JF‑501) has now flown; this advances the delivery timeline for the programme (finished assembly of Finland’s first F-35A at Fort Worth).
Underscores a broader production ramp at Lockheed: the company projects a significant increase in output, with plans to deliver up to 190 F‑35s in 2025, accelerating handovers to customers (Lockheed to Deliver Up to 190 F-35s in 2025).
Adds to a steady stream of allied handovers and regional force build-up—recent deliveries to partners, such as Belgium’s first F‑35s, show the program is moving from assembly to operational fielding in Europe (Belgium receives first four F-35A at Florennes).
Reported By
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Lockheed Martin rolls out the red carpet for Finland’s first F-35 jet • Stars and Stripes
403 Forbidden • Flying Magazine
Lockheed Martin and Finland Mark Delivery of Finland’s First F-35A • english.defensearabia.com
Finland’s first F‑35A rolls out from Lockheed Martin, signaling start of Finnish F‑35 integration • aerospaceglobalnews.com
Lockheed Martin Rolls Out Finland’s First F‑35A at Fort Worth Production Facility • investors.lockheedmartin.com
Finland’s First F-35A (JF-501) Completes Maiden Flight in Texas • Air Data News
(EL) Finland’s first F-35A takes to the air — maiden flight • flight.com.gr
