Finland Eyeing Drones Alongside Fighter Jets To Replace Hornets

Finland is mulling to acquire drones along with new fighter jets to replace Hornets altogether by next decade.

Defence Forces Logistics Command has put out a call to fighter jet contractors, asking for proposals to provide new craft to replace the existing fleet of Hornet jets, which are due to be de-commissioned by the start of 2025. That information is to be used for upcoming tenders, Yle reported Friday.

Contractors are also being asked to provide proposals that would complement the aerial power of multipurpose fighter jets with drones. Such proposals should be credible options in the post-2030 security environment.

The Defence Forces have previously used drones such as Swiss-built Ranger surveillance drones for non-combat missions. They have also acquired Israeli Orbiter surveillance drones. However drone manufacturers are now being invited to table proposals for armed drones to complement the proposed fighter jet order.