Finnish Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen authorized the procurement of Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) missiles for the Finnish Defence Forces. These AGM-88G AARGM-ER missiles will equip the F-35A multi-role fighters, enhancing survivability against adversarial long-range ground-based air defenses. This acquisition, managed by the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command, includes missiles, software, spare parts, training, and support services from 2024 to 2031. The AARGM-ER system is a new capability for Finland, initially requested as part of the HX Programme, with U.S. Congressional approval granted in 2023. Finland joins a select group of countries authorized to procure the AARGM-ER missiles, […]
Category: Finland
4 Nordic nations in talks for joint procurement of infantry fighting vehicles
The Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden are considering a joint procurement of a next-generation Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) to replace their current fleets, aiming for acquisition between 2030 and 2040. Discussions among the nations, which already use BAE Systems’ CV90, are focused on reducing procurement costs, easing development and maintenance, and enhancing supply chain efficiencies. Maj. Gen. Lars Lervik of Norway and Maj. Gen. Jonny Lindfors of Sweden highlighted the benefits of a shared platform to ensure interoperability and support regional defense. While the CV90 is a strong contender, other manufacturers are being considered for the new […]
In ‘war of industrial capacity,’ West shouldn’t go 1-to-1 on ammo with Russia: Nammo CEO
A leading European ammunition manufacturer, Nammo, suggests that competing with Russian artillery production by quantity is futile, emphasizing the importance of quality through advanced technology such as precision and longer-range capabilities. Nammo CEO Morten Brandtzaeg highlighted that Europe and the US produce 1.2 million shells annually, far below Russia’s three million, but stressed Europe’s focus on increasing production capacity with government support. Countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Germany have taken significant steps in bolstering local industry through subsidies. The European Union’s Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP), pledging €500 million, aims to help Europe meet a production target […]
USAF Releases Footage Of F-35A Roadway Landing In Finland During NATO Exercise
The U.S. Air Force has released cockpit footage of a Lockheed Martin F-35A stealth fighter landing on a roadway in Finland during NATO’s Baana 2024 exercises. Two F-35As from the USAF’s 48th Fighter Wing, stationed in the UK, landed on a designated roadway near Ranua, Finland, marking the first roadway landing of a U.S.-owned fifth-generation fighter in Europe. The footage captures the jets performing landings, touch-and-go maneuvers, and takeoffs, showcasing the USAF’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) strategy. This approach aims to mitigate risks associated with large air bases in potential conflict zones by enabling operations from dispersed and unconventional locations. […]
Finland signs for more armoured personnel carriers
Finland’s Defence Forces Logistics Command (DFLC) signed an agreement to acquire 29 additional Patria 6×6 Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) armoured personnel carriers (APCs). This follows an earlier 2023 agreement for 91 APCs, with all remaining purchase options now exercised. The vehicles will be delivered by the end of 2025 as part of the international CAVS joint programme involving Finland, Latvia, Sweden, and Germany. The CAVS programme began in 2020, and deliveries to participating countries have been ongoing. Other recent developments include Sweden’s order for 321 CAVS vehicles and Latvia’s receipt of its first CAVS vehicles. Original news
US Air Force F-35s Touch Down on a Highway in Finland for ‘Historic’ Landing
On September 4, 2024, two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II jets landed on a Finnish highway, marking the first time fifth-generation American aircraft operated from a road in Europe. This was part of the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, aimed at enhancing NATO’s ability to operate from non-traditional airfields in response to growing global threats. The exercise took place during Finland’s annual Baana exercise, showcasing U.S. and NATO adaptability in joint operations. Finland, which regularly trains its pilots to land on highways, recently joined NATO and plans to replace its F/A-18 fleet with 64 F-35s. The U.S. and NATO […]
Elbit eyes Nordic market for its ‘Iron Fist’ vehicle-protection system
Israel’s Elbit Systems is seeking to sell its Iron Fist active protection system (APS) to Denmark, Sweden, and Finland after a contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds for CV90 vehicles in Europe. The system has already been ordered by the Netherlands and the U.S. for Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. Elbit Systems showcased Iron Fist at Poland’s MSPO defense show, pitching it to the Polish military. The company sees significant potential for Iron Fist in Poland, highlighting its adaptability for both wheeled and tracked vehicles. Iron Fist provides 360-degree protection against anti-tank threats, enhancing vehicle survivability.Original news