Finland welcomes first F-35 jets as NATO tensions rise with Russia

Finland's first F-35 stealth fighters have been delivered to the northern base in Lapland, with a formal ceremony held in Rovaniemi to underscore the country's enhanced defence capabilities. Colonel Henrik Elo, head of the F-35 programme, emphasized that the aircraft's low observable design and advanced sensors allow early detection of Russian aircraft, drones and ground systems. Critics on Russian-sympathetic forums argue the jets give NATO forces a decisive edge near Finland's eastern frontier.

Training sessions in the United States revealed that the F-35 can out-detect and out-maneuver Russian Su-30s, according to senior Finnish instructor Jonathan Hassell. The jets will be equipped with AIM-120D-3, AIM-9X, SDB II, and AARGM-ER missiles, providing new options for kinetic and electronic warfare, including the ability to target enemy radar installations deep inside Russian territory.