Hornet fighter modified by Patria flew successfully

The D-model F-18 Hornet modified by Patria has successfully performed its first 51-minute flight on 3 December  2009 in Jämsä. This twin-seat aircraft is repaired and modified from a single-seat C-model F-18 Hornet badly damaged in a mid-air collision. The Patria-made changes have taken some 100 000 man-hours. The Roll-Out took place in September.

The project is an excellent example of how well Patria’s international cooperation and partnership works in the F-18 world. The modification project is also an excellent showpiece of Patria’s innovative thinking as well as technological expertise.

“The project has deepened Finnish expertise in the structures and systems of the F-18 aircraft. I am convinced that, with our technical know-how we create opportunities for future success stories," states Jukka Holkeri, Executive Vice President, Patria’s Aviation Business Unit.

On 8 November 2001, two F-18 Hornet fighters from the Satakunta Air Command collided while on a night flight exercise to the south-east of Lappajärvi. One aircraft crashed and its pilot ejected, while the other badly damaged aircraft limped back to the Pirkkala base on one engine. Both pilots were unharmed.

Patria is a defence and aerospace group with international operations, providing its customers with competitive solutions based on its own specialist know-how and partnerships. Patria is owned by the State of Finland and the European Aerospace Defence and Space Company EADS N.V.

High resolution photo: http://patria.materials.fi (Username: press, password: press) HN-468 First flight  Photo: The Finnish Air Force

Further information:
Patria   
Jukka Holkeri, Executive Vice President   
Tel. +358 40 869 2008