Eurofighter for Finland?

A recent article by George Allison published by UK Defence Journal on April 2, 2021 highlighted how the UK and BAE are working the offer to Finland for Eurofighter to replace the current fleet of F-18s.

The UK government has offered a role for Finland to participate in developing the new radar for the Eurofighter as part of the deal.

Jeremy Quin MP, the UK’s Minister of State for Defence Procurement is quoted as saying in a virtual press conference earlier this month:

“I have invited Finland to join the UK’s ECRS Mk2 radar programme, bringing Finnish expertise into its future development for the benefit of both our countries. I am not alone in wanting Finnish expertise to be part of developing our future capability, the other Eurofighter partner nations are committed to making sure Finland is part of the decision-making. As we look forward to Europe leaving behind the challenges of this terrible pandemic, let’s focus our investment in European technology and capability that gives us the military edge we need and supports European jobs.”

Air Chief Marshal Sir Michael Wigston, Chief of Air Staff, Royal Air Force, added that Finland was being offered “a long term partnership with the RAF” as part of the Eurofighter offer.

“For Finland, Eurofighter would be a gateway in to Europe’s defence and aerospace programmes, defending our skies and deterring our potential adversaries in to the future.”