Norway Completes F-35 Procurement with Final Deliveries from Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin has delivered the final two F-35A fighter jets to the Royal Norwegian Air Force, making Norway the first F-35 partner nation to complete its planned acquisition of 52 aircraft.

Norwegian Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik emphasized the significance of the aircraft in securing the country’s sovereignty. “The F-35 ensures that we can safeguard Norwegian sovereignty and maintain even better control over our areas on land, at sea, and in the air,” Sandvik said.

Norway selected the F-35A in 2008, with the first aircraft arriving at Ørland Air Base in 2015. The RNoAF reached initial operating capability (IOC) in 2019 and conducted its first NATO Air Policing mission with the aircraft in 2020.

The F-35 fleet plays a key role in securing Norway’s High North region and supporting NATO operations. Equipped with a custom-designed drag chute for operations on short, icy runways, the Norwegian F-35s enhance interoperability with other NATO forces.

Norway recently expanded its military infrastructure to support the fleet, including reactivating Bardufoss Air Station for Arctic operations. The U.S. also maintains access to Norwegian air bases, reinforcing allied cooperation in the region.