Finnish defense forces have given the green light to the HX program to search for a new fighter to replace the country's Boeing F / A-18C Hornet fleet.
The options tested, in addition to the Super Hornets, include the Dassault Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, the Saab JAS-39 Gripen and the Joint Strike Fighter of Lockheed Martin, the F-35 Lightning II. The HX program was authorized by the country's defense minister, Jussi Niinistö. The Finnish armed forces have already delivered a report in the hands of the government on the options available for the country's new combat air fleet. In the report, the military recommended the choice of a multi-role fighter and the upgrading of the entire air defense network on the ground.
The fleet Hornet Finnish will be withdrawn from the service starting from the 2020, with the entire flight line laid down by 2025. The report highlights the attrition of the aircraft (from a structural and logistical point of view) and the need for a more modern platform that can be able to counter current and future threats.
The timeline of the HX program foresees a reconnaissance phase that will end next February. All quotes from companies interested in the HX program must be delivered by 2018. The tender will take place in February of the 2019 with contracts signed in the 2021. The Initial Operating Capacity must be reached at the beginning of the 2025. Full Operational Capability must be achieved in the 2030.
Considering the production rates and the future update, the HX program has narrowed the circle to Super Hornet, Rafale, Typhoon, F-35 and JAS-39 Gripen.
(photo: Finnish Air Force)
