Denmark to Explore Options as Delay in F-35 Jet Deliveries Looms

Apprehending delay in the delivery of the first F-35 fighter jets to Denmark, Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen has ordered the Norwegian Armed Forces to look at possible alternatives.

"Today I informed the conciliation circle that there is uncertainty about the delivery of the next F-35 fighter jets. It is too early to say what this will mean, but I have asked the Norwegian Defense Forces to look at possible initiatives that can counter the delay," said Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen in a statement.

However, the situation is not expected to affect the donation of F-16 aircraft to Ukraine, which continues to have priority, as well as Denmark's obligations towards NATO in a crisis situation, the statement said.

The manufacturer, Lockheed Martin, is pushing for the first F-35 aircraft in so-called TR-3 configuration to be ready around July 2024 for delivery to Denmark.  But there is a risk of delays. There is thus not yet a clear picture of when the next Danish F-35 fighter jets can be expected to be delivered, he said.

In order to have the best conditions for dealing with the delay, the Danish Armed Forces are now initiating a series of preparations. It includes:

Preparation for a possible temporary repatriation of a number of F-35 aircraft from the joint training facility at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, USA.

Possibilities for support from other nations, so that retraining of Danish pilots can continue at Luke Air Force Base during the period when the Danish planes are yet to be delivered.

Opportunities to purchase or borrow F-35 aircraft from other F-35 operating nations.

Possible adjustment of the politically determined F-35 milestones.