Lockheed Martin Statement Regarding Norwegian Parliament Unamimous F-35 Support Vote

Lockheed Martin is honored by the trust and confidence the Norwegian parliament has placed in the F-35 Lightning II with yesterday’s unanimous vote to approve acquisition of the aircraft as part of the Long Term Defense Plan. The F-35 provides operational capabilities and partnership opportunities that strengthen and enhance Norway’s security, European security and the NATO alliance. We consider it a great privilege to work with Norway’s government and industry to build and deliver 5^th Generation fighter capabilities to the Royal Norwegian Air Force and provide high technology industrial benefits to Norwegian industry.

Jim Latham, 

Director International Business Development , 

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company

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Norway today commenced the largest public procurement project in its history. The event was marked by Minister of Defence Espen Barth Eide authorizing the order for the first F-35A Lightning II for the Norwegian Armed Forces. The decision to move forward was reached following an extended dialogue with the US Department of Defence aimed at securing opportunities for Norwegian industry.

– We have today made two critical decisions. For the first time in three decades we are now ordering new combat aircraft for the Armed Forces. Additionally, we will begin preparations for the final phase of Joint Strike Missile (JSM) development after receiving confirmation from US authorities of their support for the integration of the missile into the F-35, says Norwegian Minister of Defence Espen Barth Eide.

– This marks a key milestone in the Norwegian F-35 programme and the beginning of the largest public procurement in Norwegian history. The F-35, which Norway selected in 2008, represents a completely new generation of combat aircraft that will form a corner stone of the future Norwegian Armed Forces, says Minister of Defence Espen Barth Eide.

Confirmation of JSM integration support was provided in a letter from US Secretary of Defence, Leon Panetta to Norwegian Minister of Defence Espen Barth Eide earlier this week.

– Securing such support has been an important precondition for many of our partner nations before they would themselves commit to supporting the JSM. With such support finally in place there is now a significant potential for the missile among future operators of the F-35. Preparations for the final phase of procurement