Lockheed Martin and the US have provided their best and final offer to the Finnish government for the sale and maintenance of the F-35A.
Lockheed Martin and the US government provided their best and final offer for the sale of F-35s to the Finnish government in late April.
The best and final offer includes both the F-35A aircraft as well and an ongoing maintenance package, which includes support in the situation of a closed border.
Bridget Lauderdale, F-35 program vice president and general manager, welcomed the opportunities created by the F-35 in Finland, which includes working closely with Finnish businesses and academic organisations.
"The F-35 will provide Finnish industries high technology job opportunities that no other competitor can offer,” Lauderdale said.
"The production work will continue for more than 20 years, and the F-35 sustainment work will continue into the 2050s. Not only will Finland support its own F-35s, but it will directly support the global fleet of F-35s through the production of major components.”
Lockheed Martin argues that the F-35 is the most advance fighter aircraft, hosting enhanced sensors, weapons, range and speed. The system is currently used by 13 countries, with 630 in service.
[Related: USAF celebrates milestone for F-35A operational stand-up]