Norway to deploy F-35A fighter jets in Poland to enhance regional security and support Ukraine

F-35A Lightning II 

On June 30, 2025, the Norwegian Ministry of Defense officially confirmed the decision to deploy its Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fighter jets in Poland. This step is part of efforts to strengthen collective security in the region and support Ukraine in the ongoing conflict.

The fighters will be based in the area of Rzeszow airport, an important logistics hub through which a significant part of military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine is carried out. In addition to protecting the airspace around Rzeszow, the Norwegian F-35A will participate in ensuring the security of the entire Polish airspace, which is a key element of the integrated NATO air and missile defense system.

Norwegian Defense Minister Ture O. Sandvik stressed that the deployment of fighter jets demonstrates Norway's firm commitment to collective defense obligations within the framework of NATO and contributes to ensuring the uninterrupted supply of necessary assistance to Ukraine. This step is also aimed at deterring possible aggression and increasing security in Eastern Europe.

It is planned that the first aircraft will arrive in Poland in the fall of 2025, after which their integration into regional air defense systems and joint exercises with NATO allies will begin. The deployment of the F-35A in Poland will be an important element of strengthening the alliance's defense capabilities on the eastern flank and will increase the operational readiness of forces to respond to any threats.

Analytics: The limitations of the nuclear-capable F-35A and the UK's dependence on the United States

 

The new F-35A fighter jets, which the UK plans to purchase with the capability to carry nuclear weapons, have a number of important technical and political limitations affecting their operation and strategic autonomy.

Technical limitations

- Lack of compatibility with British tanker aircraft**  

  The F-35A cannot be refueled in the air by Royal Air Force tanker aircraft, which limits their range and time on combat patrol without the support of American tankers KC-135 or KC-46.

- Dependence on US infrastructure  

  To perform long-range operations and maintain combat readiness, the British F-35A will be heavily dependent on American logistics and air resources.

 Political dependence

- US control over nuclear weapons  

  The nuclear bombs placed on the British F-35A remain under US control. The decision on the use of nuclear weapons will be made jointly, and the United States retains the right to approve or reject Britain's plans for their use.

- Limitation of strategic autonomy

  This dependence reduces the UK's ability to make decisions on its own in the field of nuclear deterrence, which reflects the peculiarities of transatlantic relations and the NATO alliance.

Although the acquisition of the F-35A with nuclear capabilities enhances the UK's defense capabilities, technical limitations and political dependence on the United States impose significant restrictions on the use of these capabilities. To increase Britain's strategic independence, it will require the development of its own refueling infrastructure and a review of nuclear arsenal control mechanisms.

The UK will purchase 12 nuclear-capable F-35A fighter jets from the United States

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will announce plans to purchase 12 F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons from the United States at the upcoming NATO summit. This decision is aimed at strengthening the country's defense capability and increasing its contribution to the collective security of the alliance.

The fifth-generation F-35A fighters have advanced stealth technology, high maneuverability, and the ability to carry a wide range of weapons, including nuclear weapons. The purchase of these aircraft will allow the UK to modernize its fleet, replacing outdated models and increasing the level of deterrence of potential threats.

At the NATO summit, Prime Minister Starmer will call on the alliance's member states to increase their efforts to support collective defense and adapt to new security challenges, including growing tensions in various regions of the world. The United Kingdom is demonstrating an example of active participation in strengthening NATO's defense capabilities.

First F-35A fighter jet to arrive in Belgium in coming months after delays

 F-35A

Lockheed Martin announced that after a number of delays, the first F-35A fighter jet will arrive in Belgium in the coming months. This aircraft will be part of a general order for 34 fighters, which was concluded as part of the modernization program of the country's Air Force.

In 2018, Belgium selected the American F-35A as its main combat aircraft and signed a contract worth 3.6 billion euros (about 4.1 billion US dollars) for the supply of more than two dozen such vehicles manufactured in the United States. This step is aimed at replacing outdated fighter jets and significantly increasing the combat capabilities of the Belgian Air Force.

The delivery of the first aircraft will be an important stage in the implementation of the program, which includes not only the purchase of equipment, but also pilot training, technical staff training and the creation of the necessary infrastructure.

F-35A fighters of the Royal Netherlands Air Force participate in the Baana 25 exercises in Finland

Fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighters of the Royal Netherlands Air Force took part in the international Baana 25 exercises taking place in Finland. This year, for the first time, the exercises include operations on the highway, an important element of preparation for combat operations in conditions of limited infrastructure.

The Dutch F-35A operated in conjunction with Finnish Air Force aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornets, combat training Hawks and light transport Learjet. The exercises are aimed at working out the interaction of various types of aircraft in difficult conditions, including rapid deployment and the use of roads as runways.

The Baana 25 demonstrates a high level of coordination and compatibility between NATO allied forces and partners, which is especially important in the northern regions with their unique climatic and geographical features. The use of the F-35A makes it possible to practice modern air combat tactics and integrate advanced technologies into joint operations.

Finland, which recently joined NATO, is actively developing cooperation with its allies, and the Baana exercises serve as a platform for strengthening defense readiness and sharing experiences between countries.

Diamond Dragon exercises: nuclear accident in the UK

 The Diamond Dragon exercises simulated the crash in the UK of an American aircraft carrying "defense nuclear materials.

"Exercises simulating an accident involving nuclear material were conducted, in which military personnel from the UK Lakenheath Air Force Base in Suffolk County took part.The F-35A Lightning II squadron at the base is now certified to carry B61-12 thermonuclear munitions.

The UK and NATO have a long-standing policy of not confirming or denying the presence of nuclear weapons in a particular location.

The United States and South Korea conducted large-scale joint exercises involving B-1B bombers

 

Rockwell B-1 Lancer

On April 15, the United States and South Korea conducted joint air exercises, demonstrating their military might over the Korean peninsula. The maneuvers involved B-1B Lancer strategic bombers, as well as American and South Korean F-16 and F-35A stealth fighters. This step was aimed at confirming the readiness of the two countries to counter potential threats in the region.

South Korea's Ministry of National Defense stressed that the exercises were conducted to demonstrate "the continued visibility of the expanded deterrence of the United States." The choice of the date for the mission is also not accidental: the exercises were held on the birthday of Kim Il Sung, the founder of North Korea. This decision is intended to send a clear signal to Pyongyang about the determination of Washington and Seoul to protect their interests.

The maneuvers involved a B-1B Lancer strategic bomber capable of carrying up to 57 tons of conventional ammunition. This aircraft is known for its high speed and range, making it an indispensable tool for deterrence missions. In addition, F-16 multirole fighters and modern F-35A stealth fighters participated in the exercises, enhancing the capabilities of the joint air group.

The main purpose of the exercises was to confirm the readiness of the United States and South Korea to act together in the event of a military threat. The deployment of strategic bombers over the Korean Peninsula symbolizes the US commitment to its "enhanced deterrence" policy, which guarantees the protection of allies using the most advanced military technologies.

The exercise has raised tensions in the region, especially given North Korea's recent actions, including ballistic missile tests. For Seoul and Washington, this was an important step in demonstrating strength and unity in the face of growing threats from the DPRK.

The joint exercises confirmed the strength of the military alliance between the United States and South Korea. In the future, the countries plan to continue holding such events in order to strengthen their defense strategy and ensure stability in the region.

The April 15 exercises were a prime example of how the United States and South Korea coordinate their actions to counter threats. The deployment of B-1B strategic bombers and stealth fighters underscores the seriousness of the two countries' intentions. In the context of growing tensions on the Korean peninsula, such steps play a key role in ensuring peace and security.

F-35A and Su-35 interaction off the coast of Alaska

An F-35A of the US Air Force and a Tu-95MS bomber and two Su-35 fighters of the Russian Air Force are in the air

On April 4, 2025, footage was released showing the close interaction of an F-35A fighter jet of the US Air Force and a Su-35 of the Russian Air Force off the coast of Alaska. During the incident, the F-35A was approaching the Russian aircraft and successfully positioned itself ahead and to its right. 

Details of the incident

Russian Su-35 fighters escorted Tu-95MS strategic bombers near the coast of the American state. Such patrols are a common practice for the Russian Air Force. However, this was the first known case of a USAF F-35A colliding with a Su-35 in such proximity. 

The significance of the incident

This event highlights the increasing tension in the airspace off the coast of Alaska. The Su-35 has been involved in close encounters with American warplanes in the past, but the encounter with the F-35A is a new milestone. The F-35A is one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, equipped with advanced stealth and electronic warfare systems. The Su-35, in turn, is one of the best Russian fighters, with high maneuverability and powerful weapons. 

Impact on international relations

Such incidents could exacerbate tensions between the United States and Russia and require a careful approach from both sides to avoid unintended escalation. At the same time, they also emphasize the importance of dialogue and measures to prevent incidents in the air. 

Norway has received 49 F-35A fighters: completion of the program is near

 

The Norwegian Defense Materials Agency recently announced the delivery of three new F-35A fighter jets, marking an important milestone in the country's Air Force modernization program. Norway now has 49 units of these advanced fifth-generation aircraft, and the remaining three are scheduled to be delivered by the summer of this year. The last three fighters landed in the country on February 27 and are already preparing to fly from the Erland Airbase.

The acquisition of F-35A fighter jets is a key element of Norway's strategy to upgrade its air power. These fifth-generation multi-role aircraft provide air superiority due to their unique characteristics, including high maneuverability, stealth technology, and integration of advanced electronics systems. 

The F-35A is capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from air patrols and target interception to ground strike operations. This makes it an ideal choice for protecting Norwegian airspace, especially given its geographical location near the Arctic, where security issues are becoming increasingly urgent.

Norway has signed an agreement to purchase 52 F-35A fighter jets as part of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) international program. Since the start of deliveries to the country, these aircraft have been actively integrated into the Norwegian Air Force, undergoing various stages of testing and crew training. 

The arrival of the 49th fighter highlights significant progress in the implementation of this program. Erland Air Base, located near the capital Oslo, will be the main base for the F-35A. The infrastructure continues to expand here to ensure the efficient operation of new equipment.

It is expected that the last three fighter jets will be delivered to Norway before the summer of 2025, thereby completing the F-35A procurement program. After that, the entire fleet will be fully deployed and ready for combat missions. This will allow Norway not only to modernize its armed forces, but also to strengthen its role in regional security, especially in the framework of cooperation with NATO.