The planned arrival of U.S. F-35 stealth fighters from North America to Finland was abruptly canceled at the last moment, primarily due to the U.S. military's requirements for air tankers to support ongoing military operations in Iran. This decision has disappointed military officials in Finland, who had anticipated the participation of these advanced aircraft in the Cold Response 26 NATO exercise taking place in the Nordic region.

The Cold Response 26 exercise is scheduled to feature approximately 30-35 fighter jets, including eight Finnish Air Force Hornets. According to U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Justin Frickie, the lack of available air tanker support meant that the F-35s could not be flown across the Atlantic to join the exercise. The absence of these advanced fighters highlights the logistical challenges faced by the U.S. military as it balances commitments overseas with regional defense exercises.

During the exercise, the Finnish Air Force's Hornet jets will engage in ground-attack operations alongside air forces from Norway, Sweden, and the United States. The participation of these Hornets reflects Finland's strategic partnership with NATO allies. The exercise continues despite adverse weather conditions, showcasing NATO's commitment to maintaining high readiness in the face of evolving security challenges in the region.