Denmark Soars to New Heights: The Inaugural F-35A Takes to the Skies
Earlier this week, the L-001, Denmark’s inaugural F-35 Lightning II production aircraft, completed its first flight. Denmark becomes the fifth European NATO member to operate the F-35, reinforcing NATO’s fifth-generation airpower framework. Denmark joins four other European nations already utilizing the F-35: the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Norway, and Italy.
Similar to the F-16, the F-35 is at the forefront of NATO’s air superiority, ensuring strategic integration of allied aerial combat capabilities. The essential interoperability of the fifth-generation F-35 connects 13 allies and partners with the United States in achieving air dominance and facilitating crucial joint capabilities. The F-35 will act as a force multiplier for Denmark, enabling the Royal Danish Air Force to train and operate alongside NATO allies, establishing a robust deterrent.
“Reaching the initial flight of Denmark’s first F-35 represents a significant milestone for the Denmark F-35 initiative and underscores the exceptional skills of our committed and highly skilled joint industry and government team,” said Bill Brotherton, acting vice president and general manager of F-35. “This group’s commitment to delivering the most efficient, survivable, and interconnected fighter globally will guarantee Denmark’s sovereign defense and enhance partnerships within the NATO F-35 coalition.”
The L-001 is expected to be handed over to the Royal Danish Air Force in April and will be transported to Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, later this year for pilot and maintenance training. F-35s are set to arrive in Denmark in 2023, stationed at the Royal Danish Air Force’s Fighter Wing Skrydstrup, where it will protect the airspace over Denmark and its NATO allies.
