Denmark to Bring Home F-35 TR-2 Jets as Delays Persist over TR-3 Configuration

In response to ongoing delays in the delivery of the new TR-3 configuration F-35 fighter jets, Denmark's Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen has announced the return of six TR-2 configured Danish F-35 jets from Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.

These jets, used for training purposes, are being returned to Denmark as a solution to delays in the delivery of new Danish F-35 fighter jets configured with the latest Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3).

The six jets, currently in the TR-2 configuration, will be replaced by the TR-3 jets upon their arrival at Luke Air Force Base. Defense Minister Poulsen initiated this plan in the spring to mitigate the impact of potential delays. “It is very positive that we have now found a solution so that the delays from the manufacturer affect us as little as possible,” Poulsen stated.

The delays are due to the implementation of the TR-3 technological update for the global F-35 fleet. The TR-3 configuration introduces hardware and software upgrades compared to the TR-2. Returning the TR-2 jets will facilitate increased training for pilots and support personnel at Fighter Wing Skrydstrup, while pilot training continues in Arizona. This strategic adjustment ensures that Denmark's operational milestones for integrating the F-35 jets into its armed forces are maintained.

The initial delivery of TR-3 jets, which are only suitable for training in their restricted version, prompted this repatriation decision. “The F-35 fighter jets are a major investment for Denmark, crucial for our defense and security for many years to come,” Poulsen emphasized.

This move does not impact Denmark’s donation of F-16 aircraft to Ukraine or its NATO obligations during crises. Denmark has acquired a total of 27 F-35 fighter jets, receiving 10 in the TR-2 configuration. Four of these were delivered to Skrydstrup Air Force Base in the autumn of 2023, while the remaining six have been stationed at Luke Air Force Base for training purposes. The remaining jets are scheduled to be delivered in the TR-3 configuration by 2027.