Finland announced that it will procure a new batch of Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) from the United States, a move that marks another significant step in strengthening the country’s air defence capability as it prepares to field its next-generation fighter fleet.
The decision, authorised by Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen, covers the acquisition of the AIM-120D-3 AMRAAM, the newest and most sophisticated variant in the missile series developed for modern air combat. The missiles will be integrated with Finland’s incoming F-35A Lightning II multirole combat aircraft, deliveries of which are scheduled to begin late next year.
In a statement released on Friday, the Finnish government said the first missile consignments are intended to “support the deployment of the F-35 fleet,” adding that the advanced weapon system will significantly enhance national readiness. Häkkänen noted that the procurement “will give Finland the latest and most advanced variant of AMRAAM, which will improve our ability to respond to threats in our operating environment,” and will strengthen interoperability with the United States and NATO allies.
Major U.S. Foreign Military Sale Clears Path for Acquisition
The missile order follows approval from the U.S. Congress in September 2025 under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme. The package, valued at more than $1 billion, includes hundreds of AIM-120D-3 missiles along with training, technical documentation, test equipment, spare parts, transport and logistical support. The United States will also provide administrative and engineering services during the delivery period.
The AIM-120D-3 incorporates extended range, improved navigation and upgraded resistance to electronic countermeasures, making it one of the most capable beyond-visual-range air-to-air weapons currently fielded by Western air forces. RTX, formerly Raytheon Technologies, is the principal contractor.
Strengthened Airpower as Finland Joins NATO Defence Network
Finland, which shares a 1,340-kilometre border with Russia, has accelerated its defence modernisation since joining NATO in 2023. Its 2022 decision to purchase 64 F-35A fighters from Lockheed Martin remains the largest defence procurement in Finnish history and a central pillar of its future airpower strategy.
The country already employs older AMRAAM variants on its F/A-18 Hornet fleet and in the NASAMS ground-based air defence system, but the AIM-120D-3 will be used exclusively with the new F-35s, offering a major boost in Finland’s air-to-air engagement capabilities.
With geopolitical tensions heightened across northern Europe and Russia’s war in Ukraine reshaping regional security, Helsinki has prioritised deterrence and deeper NATO integration. The new missile system is expected to play a central role in Finland’s airspace defence strategy.
Modernisation Effort Continues
Finland’s first F-35A aircraft are currently undergoing testing in the United States ahead of their scheduled arrival in late 2026. Defence officials say the combination of the F-35 platform and the AIM-120D-3 missile will form a critical foundation for Finland’s future air superiority posture.
By aligning its capabilities with those of major NATO allies, Finland aims to sustain a robust and technologically advanced defence framework while strengthening its ability to respond to emerging security threats across Europe.
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