Denmark confirms acquisition of F-35s
The Danish government and the Social Democrats, the Danish People's Party, Liberal Alliance and the Social Liberal Party, yesterday agreed on the acquisition of F-35As as Denmark's new fighter aircraft to replace its current F-16 aircraft.
Above:
F-35As at Luke AFB, USA.
Courtesy Lockheed Martin
The acquisition continues Denmark's current operational capabilities in fighter aircraft and ensure that Denmark continues to have freedom of action and ability to assert Danish sovereignty, the ability to be deployed in international operations in line with the commitments in relation to NATO's demands and ultimately contribute to NATO's collective defence of Danish and allied territory.
Based on the current level of ambition for the assignment of combat aircraft, the parties agree to purchase 27 F-35A Joint Strike Fighters.
The parties note that there are a number of optimisations and efficiency improvements that form the basis of the evaluation result. The parties note that the Defense should have the freedom to determine the specific initiatives for streamlining and optimising the fighter capability so that problem solving can be done without compromising safety.
With the F-16 aircraft’s usage pattern, it is expected that the last F-16 aircraft is phased out by the end of 2024. The phasing in of the Joint Strike Fighter aircraft is expected go on for a period of six years (2021-2026).
The purchase amount accumulated over the phase-in period is about DKK20 billion ($3.04bn).
The new fighter is expected to be purchased in a number of so-called "block buys" covering several years' deliveries. The parties to the Agreement have agreed that prior to contracting for the last six aircraft a status will be made by the parties behind the defence agreement. At this point the parties can decide to purchase fewer aircraft if the first aircraft are not delivered on time and to the expected price.
The parties agree that the Danish fighter aircraft will continue to operate from Skrydstrup, which will be rebuilt and prepared to receive F-35 fighter jets.
Parties behind the defence agreement may decide to acquire more aircraft within the defence’s economic framework.
The conciliation parties agree that there should be a special effort to promote Danish business opportunities to coproduce the aircraft and for that purpose a facilitating mechanism will be established.
In a statement, the F-35 Joint Program said: 'We welcome Denmark's decision to operate the F-35. The Joint Program Office remains committed to delivering affordable, reliable and sustainable next-generation fighters to our allies and the US Services. The F-35 will be a linchpin for future coalition operations and help Denmark achieve its national security requirements.'
Lockheed Martin stated that 'We stand ready to accommodate Denmark’s decision and will continue to work with the US government and the F-35 Joint Program Office to support the procurement of the F-35. Additionally, we will continue to work with Danish Industry on F-35 production and sustainment.'