Lockheed Martin‘s F-35 Lightning II has been chosen by The Swiss Federal Council as the winner of its New Fighter Aircraft competition.
Acquisition of the aircraft will make Switzerland the 15th nation to join the F-35 program of record, amongst several other European nations. 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.
“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.
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. Swiss industry will have the opportunity to participate in research and development, production and sustainment opportunities that will extend their capabilities into the future.
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.
