Nato nations are reconsidering their commitment to purchase American-made F-35 fighter jet after US President Donald Trump’s constant tariff threats and his approach on Russia-Ukraine war.
At present, the F-35 is operated by the US and 19 allied nations, including non-NATO countries such as South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Israel. Many NATO members had planned to acquire the aircraft to replace their aging fleets, which include US, European, and even Soviet-era jets. However, recent geopolitical developments have put these deals under scrutiny.
On Thursday, Portugal’s defence minister pointed to “the recent US stance in the context of NATO” as a reason for reassessing plans to replace 28 F-16s with the F-35 Lightning II.
Similarly, Canada’s newly appointed PM, Mark Carney, also called for a review of his country’s $13 billion contract for 88 F-35s. Germany’s order for 35 of the aircraft also lies uncertain.
The F-35 programme has faced consistent cost overruns and technical setbacks. Despite this, it remains one of the most advanced combat aircraft in the world, boasting stealth capabilities, cutting-edge sensors, and multi-role functionality.
Richard Aboulafia, managing director at aerospace consultancy aerodynamic advisory, said, “The F-35 is a really good plane that has best-in-class insurgency capabilities and low observability,” says Richard Aboulafia, managing director at Aerodynamic Advisory, an aerospace consultancy. If NATO abandons it.”
Nato members benefit from operating the same aircraft, as it simplifies pilot training, maintenance, spare parts supply, and munitions compatibility.
Former Texas representative Mac Thornberry, a staunch advocate of the F-35 programme, warned that any retreat from the aircraft “would be a further deterioration in the cohesiveness of Nato, which is what our adversaries would like to see.”
“It is easier to fight with allies when you use the same equipment,” he said, quoted by NPR.
For countries seeking alternatives, Sweden’s Saab JAS-39 Gripen is emerging as a potential option. While less stealthy, the Gripen boasts greater speed, range, and significantly lower procurement and operational costs.
However, it is less compatible with Nato’s standardised systems, presenting logistical challenges.
European media reports have raised fears of a so-called “kill switch” that could allow the US to remotely disable the aircraft. The F-35’s high cost, projected by the US government accountability office to exceed $2 trillion over its lifetime, has also drawn criticism domestically.