Announcement Made By Danish Prime Minister And Defense Minister

The Danish Government is recommending the purchase of 27 F-35s for its future defense needs. The announcement was made at 10 a.m. Thursday in Copenhagen by the Prime Minister and the Defense Minister.

The announcement is phase one of two. The next phase is an open debate in parliament, which should last approximately one month before Denmark officially approves its decision.

In a statement, the F-35 Joint Program Office said: "We are honored Denmark is considering the F-35A to meet its national defense requirements. We understand the selection process for the New Fighter Program is still ongoing and the Joint Program Office will continue to provide the Danish Government with the data needed to make an informed decision that is in their country's best interest."

Lockheed Martin said it is pleased that Denmark has reaffirmed its commitment to the F-35 program with the down select of the F-35 in this fair and open competition. "Denmark is a longtime partner of Lockheed Martin and we are proud of our strong record of supporting its national security requirements," the company said in a statement. "The F-35 Lightning II will help ensure Denmark’s national security, and also positions Danish industry to capture long-term work throughout the life of the program. We remain committed to assist the U.S. government and F-35 Joint Program Office to support Denmark’s future fighter and other aircraft requirements.
 
"Additionally, we will continue to work with Danish Industry on F-35 production throughout the life of the program. The projected industrial opportunities with the F-35 will bring long term economic benefits to Denmark for decades to come."

(Source: JPO news release. Image from file)

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