Patria’s Pivotal Role in Strengthening National Security and the Global F-35 Supply Network
The Finnish fighter initiative presents a crucial avenue for Patria, which has been actively engaged in preparatory efforts supporting the Ministry of Defence and the Finnish Defence Forces. Patria oversees the existing fighter aircraft fleet and possesses specialized skills and distinctive expertise to bolster Finland’s comprehensive security of supply through its extensive history.
“Patria has served as a neutral strategic ally for the Finnish Defence Forces throughout the initiative. The primary objective has been to guarantee national security of supply and the longevity of the future fighter fleet. This decision will also provide Patria with significant access to the global F-35 supply network,” states Petri Hepola, Head of Patria’s HX initiative.
The F-35’s industrial collaboration model in Finland establishes robust capabilities related to security of supply and plays a vital role in the national economy. The primary industrial collaboration projects for Patria involve the large-scale production of F-35 forward fuselages in Finland for various users, along with the further manufacturing of structural components. Additionally, the F-35 team has proposed an engine final assembly for the Finnish Air Force fleet. Furthermore, the existing repair capabilities for numerous components across a variety of aircraft systems will be established in Finland. The employment implications of industrial participation are projected to amount to 4500 person-years directly and 1500 indirectly. The industrial participation agreement will be formalized by the Ministry of Defence along with Lockheed Martin and engine producer Pratt & Whitney.
“This initiative will have a substantial employment impact — not only for Patria but nationally as well. Collaboration with Lockheed Martin certainly unveils many new possibilities for Finnish enterprises. Diverse partnerships will ensure a cost-efficient and extensive knowledge base for Finland,” asserts Esa Rautalinko, President and CEO of Patria Group.
