Norway has finalized its purchase of 52 F-35A fighter jets, Lockheed Martin announced. The milestone comes as a new F-35 maintenance center opens in Rygge, boosting Norway’s independent service capacity. Lockheed Martin reassured partners about the absence of a remote “kill-switch,” citing the secure U.S.-controlled F-35 ecosystem. Meanwhile, the Cameri depot in Italy remains pivotal for European F-35 logistics. The developments strengthen NATO’s air capabilities and defense autonomy in the region.
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U.S. Invests $188 Million in Norway’s Rygge Airbase for F-35 Expansion
- Veiko Lukmann
- 18/03/2025
- 0
The U.S. is investing $188 million to upgrade Norway’s Rygge airbase, enhancing storage and operational capacity for F-35 fighter jets under the 2021 Supplementary Defense Cooperation Agreement. Norwegian State Secretary Andreas Flåm emphasized the long-standing defense partnership, stating, “Norway and the U.S. have enjoyed close defense cooperation for more than 75 years.” The upgrades include constructing four fighter hangars and expanding ammunition storage to support NATO operations. Despite concerns about potential U.S. restrictions on F-35 deployment, Flåm reassured that U.S.-Norwegian defense ties remain strong. The investment underscores Norway’s strategic role in NATO’s northern defense posture. Original news
Norway Receives Three More F-35 Jets, Total Now at 49
- Veiko Lukmann
- 04/03/2025
- 0
Norway has received three new F-35A aircraft from Lockheed Martin, bringing its total fleet to 49 jets, with three more expected by summer. The aircraft arrived on February 27 and are now stationed at Ørland Air Station. Col. Tord Aslaksen praised Lockheed Martin’s delivery efficiency, highlighting the complexity of fifth-generation fighter production. A report by the Center for Policy and Analysis raises concerns over Europe’s reliance on the F-35, warning that airpower cannot fully replace ground-based firepower. The deliveries strengthen Norway’s defense posture amid growing regional security challenges. Original news
Norway upgrades Ula-class submarines once more before 212CD rollout
- Veiko Lukmann
- 25/09/2024
- 0
Norway’s 212CD submarine program is on track for delivery in the early 2030s, while Norway invests in upgrading its aging Ula-class submarines. To extend the Ula-class’ service life, Norway signed a NOK436 million (US$41.6 million) upgrade agreement with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. The Ula-class, in service since the 1980s, is nearing the end of its operational lifespan, but these upgrades will sustain the fleet until the 212CD submarines are ready. Kongsberg, the original combat system supplier for the Ula-class, is responsible for both hardware and software upgrades. The 212CD program, developed with ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, recently completed its critical design […]