Finland is poised to significantly enhance its air-to-ground military capabilities with the acquisition of new, extended-range missiles for its forthcoming F-35 fighter jets.

In a decisive move, the Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen confirmed on May 31, 2024, that Finland will procure additional Lockheed Martin AGM-158B JASSM-ER (Joint Air-to-Surface Stand-off Missile – Extended Range).

The AGM-158B JASSM-ER is an advanced variant of the missile systems already employed by the Finnish Air Force’s FA-18C/D Hornets.

The JASSM-ER stands out for its remarkable capacity to cover nearly 1,000 kilometers, a substantial increase from the original JASSM’s 370 kilometers range.

The upgrade is facilitated through an innovative dual-mode turbofan engine and additional fuel reserves.

This missile variant is earmarked for use with Finland’s incoming fleet of Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II jets, selected by the Finnish government on December 10, 2021.

The decision to acquire the JASSM-ER comes four years after the U.S. government sanctioned its sale to Finland as part of a comprehensive package to bolster the F-35A’s candidacy in the Finnish Air Force’s HX program.

The primary objective of this initiative is to replace the aging Hornets within the Finnish Air Force.

Defense News reported that the Finnish Air Force is on schedule to receive 64 F-35A jets, with the first batch expected to arrive and be operational from the Arctic air bases in Finnish Lapland by 2026.

Following the announcement, the Finnish Defense Forces Logistics Command stated that the procurement, to be carried out by them, will enhance the F-35 system’s versatility by incorporating precision-guided munitions with extended range capabilities compared to previous munitions.

The introduction of the JASSM-ER, aimed at bolstering air-to-ground capabilities, will align with the scheduled F-35 integration plan within the Finnish Air Force.

Retired Colonel Henrik Elo from the Finnish Defense Forces Logistics Command underscored the significance of this enhancement: “The range, precision, and survivability of the weapon’s effect will significantly contribute to our own countermeasures to stop a potential aggressor. In addition to the other features of the F-35, the current acquisition will greatly enhance our defense capability.”

Furthermore, the comprehensive acquisition package includes missiles, training manuals, documentation, spare parts, transport services, and equipment.

It also encompasses training for manufacturers and suppliers, U.S. administrative services, and a suite of repair and support services from 2024 to 2031.

Apart from the United States, AGM-158A missiles are deployed by key American allies such as Australia, Poland, South Korea, and Japan.

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