Switzerland Selects F-35 Lightning II for Future Air Defense Requirements

Rhea-AI Summary

Lockheed Martin's F-35 Lightning II has been selected by Switzerland in its New Fighter Aircraft competition. This decision marks Switzerland as the 15th nation to join the F-35 program, enhancing global airpower. The Swiss Air Force will receive tailored F-35A aircraft and a comprehensive training program. This collaboration promises long-term economic and technical benefits, with opportunities for Swiss industry in research, development, and production. Currently, over 655 F-35s are in service globally, supported by extensive training programs.

Positive

• Switzerland becomes the 15th nation in the F-35 program, enhancing Lockheed Martin's market footprint.
• The selection will deliver long-term economic and technical advantages for Switzerland.
• Swiss industry gains access to research, development, and production opportunities.

Negative

• None.

FORT WORTH, Texas, June 30, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Swiss Federal Council announced Lockheed Martin's F-35 Lightning II is the aircraft selected from its New Fighter Aircraft competition.

Switzerland will become the 15th nation to join the F-35 program of record, joining several European nations.

"We are honored to be selected by Switzerland and look forward to partnering with the Swiss government, public, air force and industry to deliver and sustain the F-35 aircraft," said Bridget Lauderdale, Lockheed Martin's vice president and general manager of the F-35 Program. "With the selection, Switzerland will become the 15th nation to join the F-35 program of record, joining several European nations in further strengthening global airpower and security."

The Swiss Air Force will receive F-35A aircraft, a sustainment solution tailored to Swiss autonomy requirements, and a comprehensive training program.

The F-35 selection will deliver economic and technical advantages to the nation for decades to come. Swiss industry will have the opportunity to participate in research and development, production and sustainment opportunities that will extend their capabilities into the future. As a new participant in the F-35 program, Switzerland will benefit from Lockheed Martin's dedication to autonomy and sovereignty in integrating indigenous solutions.

To date, the F-35 operates from 21 bases worldwide, with nine nations operating F-35s on their home soil. There are more than 655 F-35s in service today, with more than 1,380 pilots and 10,670 maintainers trained on the aircraft. 

For additional information, visit www.f35.com.

About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 114,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

Please follow @LMNews on Twitter for the latest announcements and news across the corporation.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/switzerland-selects-f-35-lightning-ii-for-future-air-defense-requirements-301323263.html

SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics