Finnish Defence Forces to procure anti-radiation homing missiles for F-35 multi-role fighters
Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen has authorised the Finnish Defence Forces to procure AARGM-ER air-to-ground missiles for F-35 multi-role combat aircraft. The Ministerial Finance Committee endorsed the procurement in its session on 10 October 2024.
The AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) missiles will be used with the Finnish Air Force’s forthcoming F-35A multi-role combat aircraft. The procurement will supplement the capabilities of the F-35 fighters, creating a rapid capability especially against ground and surface targets that emit radio frequency signals. The missiles will enhance the F-35 fighters’ survivability when operating under the threat of an adversary’s long-range ground-based air defence systems.
“The procurement will augment Finland’s capabilities to counter current and future threats as it will strengthen our defence capability and safeguard our interoperability with the United States and other Allies,” Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen says.
The procurement includes missiles, software, replacement parts, accessories, manuals and documentation, transport services as well as training, repair and support services of the manufacturer and the supplier from 2024 to 2031, as laid down in a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA). The missile system will be delivered in line with the service introduction schedule for the Air Force F-35A multi-role combat aircraft.
The procurement will be a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract between the authorities of the United States and Finland. The Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command will conclude the contract with the US administration.
Inquiries: Krista Siik, Branch Engineer, Ministry of Defence, tel. +358 295 140 015, Colonel Henrik Elo, F-35 Programme Director, Air Force Command Finland, tel. +358 299 800 (Defence Forces switchboard).