The Finnish Air Force (FAF) is considering the decommission of 41 BAE Hawk attack and trainer jets by 2014 as well as replacing all 27 Vinka trainer aircraft by 2017.

The FAF’s move will open the door for possible procurement cooperation with Sweden, which is also considering the replacement of its Saab jet trainers over a similar time period.

Finland will upgrade 18 Hawk aircraft and extend their service life by 20 years for exclusive use for pilot training.

During the replacement programme, the FAF will decommission 41 of its 67 remaining two-seat Hawks.

The air force have removed ten Hawks from operational service due to metal fatigue affecting the aircraft’s frames and wings, according to defensenews.com.