The United States Marine Corps performed its first F-35B takeoff and landing on Finnish highways, accompanied by refueling and armament operations to support continuous missions in the country. The exercise demonstrated that flights could continue even if bases are damaged. Alongside the American jets, Polish F-16s and Spanish F-18s participated, showcasing a full‑scale NATO defensive drill.
The Marine Corps is retiring its older Hornet F-18s by 2030, and its AV‑8B Harriers were retired last week, with F-35 deliveries proceeding as scheduled. Finland joined NATO in 2023, followed by Sweden in 2024 amid heightened security concerns after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Similar highway operations have been carried out in the Netherlands and Norway, reflecting a growing European presence of the F-35 fleet.