The Finnish Ministry of Defence has approved the acquisition of medium-range missiles of the type AMRAAM AIM-120D-3 from the United States. The missiles are to be used with the upcoming F-35 aircraft.

– With this procurement, Finland gains access to the latest and most capable missile version, which enhances our ability to address threats in the surrounding environment. The procurement further strengthens cooperation capabilities with the United States and other allies, says Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen, in a press release from the Ministry of Defence.

According to the Defence Forces Logistics Command, Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen authorised the procurement on 12 December. The AIM-120D-3 is the latest version of the AMRAAM missile and is delivered by the American company Raytheon. The United States Congress approved the export in September 2025.

The acquisition includes, in addition to the missiles, manuals, documentation, spare parts, accessories, transportation, as well as training, repair, and support services from both the manufacturer and American authorities, according to a so-called Letter of Offer and Acceptance agreement.

– When the decision to acquire the F-35 was made, Finland wanted to ensure that the aircraft could be equipped with the most modern weapon systems. We are now on the way to achieving this, thanks to previous decisions on weapon acquisitions and the latest decision to purchase the AMRAAM D-3, says Colonel (ret.) Henrik Elo, project manager for the Finnish F-35 programme, in the press release from the Logistics Command.

AIM-120 missiles are currently used on F/A-18 aircraft and in the army's air defence system NASAMS, but the current version D-3 is intended exclusively for the F-35 system.