In an $11.3 billion agreement, representing Finland's largest-ever purchase, the government said it has agreed to purchase 64 US Lockheed Martin F-35 A fighter jets to replace its aging combat aircraft.
The country chose to have the U.S. aircraft to replace its fleet of more than 60 jet fighters acquired in the early 1990s from five contenders, including the Boeing F-18 Super Hornet, France's Dassault Rafale, Britain's Eurofighter Typhoon and Sweden's Saab Gripen.
Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin said that her government's unanimous decision was based on a recommendation by the Finnish Defense Forces.
She said that new fighters are a key part of the defense of Finland. Fighters protect the integrity of Finnish airspace, protect society from air strikes and support army and navy operations. In a statement, Lockheed Martin said that it was honored that the Finnish government chose the F-35 through its thorough, open competition. The agreement will include a robust weapons package, a sustainment solution tailored to Finland's unique security of supply requirements and a comprehensive training program, as well as a comprehensive training program, it added.
The Finnish government said direct procurement from Lockheed, including weapons, is worth about $9.5 billion, with the additional $1.8 billion earmarked for weapons package optimization, equipment, construction of hangars and future amendments to the agreement.
Major General Pasi Jokinen, commander of the Finnish air force, said the F-35 was chosen due to its performance in combat, reconnaissance and survival capabilities.
In 2014, Finland, a member of the European Union, is a militarily neutral nation, but closely cooperates with NATO.
It has increased its defense and military cooperation with the U.S. Sweden, Norway, and shares an 832 mile border with Russia.
Lockheed Martin has stated that there are currently more than 730 F-35 s in service around the world.