15:59 24-04-2026

Finland Eyes F-35 Nuclear Role Near Russian Border

U.S. Air Force photo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Finland considers allowing foreign nuclear weapons as it acquires F-35 jets, raising prospects of nuclear deployment near the Russian border.

Finland is moving closer to a potential agreement with the United States on the shared use of nuclear weapons carried by fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets near the Russian border, according to Military Watch Magazine (MWM).

The discussion has been prompted by a proposal from Finland’s Ministry of Defence, which has already been submitted to parliament. The document allows for the possibility of lifting restrictions on the import of foreign nuclear weapons, provided such a step is justified by national security interests.

MWM notes that Finland plans to acquire 64 °F-35 aircraft. These jets are viewed as an effective platform for delivering nuclear payloads: their internal bays can carry two B61-type bombs, while stealth capabilities combined with advanced electronic warfare systems are expected to enhance their survivability during deep strikes into Russian territory.

The publication also outlines the potential scale of destruction. Estimates suggest that a single B61-13 bomb, if deployed from an F-35, could result in the deaths of more than 310,000 people in Moscow or roughly 360,000 in Saint Petersburg.

At the same time, MWM points out that Russia’s own fifth-generation Su-57 fighters are also capable of carrying nuclear weapons. However, their deployment in regions bordering Finland has yet to take place.

Earlier, in December, The National Interest reported-citing a relevant office within Lockheed Martin-that the first Finnish F-35 had already completed its maiden flight.