Lockheed Says Multi-National JSF Partnership Remains Strong

Last week, Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg formally recommended to his country's Parliament that Lockheed Martin's F-35 Lightning II be selected to fulfill Norway's future air-combat capability requirements.

The F-35, also known as the Joint Strike Fighter, was chosen over Sweden's Gripen based on its superior performance in "intelligence and surveillance, counter air, air interdict and anti-surface warfare," according to a statement from Norway's defense ministry.

"We're very pleased with the announcement and are committed to supporting the Norwegian government in moving forward with the F-35," said Tom Burbage, Lockheed Martin executive vice president and manager of F-35 Program Integration. "The Lightning II will help ensure Norway's national security, and also brings substantial opportunities for Norwegian industry."

Norway conducted a formal competition between the F-35 and the Saab Gripen NG (similar to type shown below). One other JSF partner nation, Denmark, is also conducting a competition for its next generation fighter and will announce its decision in 2009. All additional JSF partner nations have completed their analyses in favor of the F-35.

Three F-35 variants derived from a common design, developed together and using the same sustainment infrastructure worldwide will replace at least 13 types of aircraft for 11 nations initially, making the Lightning II the most cost-effective fighter program in history.

FMI: www.lockheedmartin.com, www.regjeringen.no/en/dep/fd.html?id=380