European Nations Reassess F-35 Purchases Amid Concerns Over U.S. Control

The dominance of the American-made F-35 in Europe faces scrutiny as countries like Portugal delay orders and explore alternatives like France's Rafale jet.

• Over 600 F-35 jets are currently ordered by European nations, solidifying its position as the primary fighter aircraft in the region.
• The F-35's reliance on U.S.-controlled updates and centralized maintenance in Florida raises concerns about operational autonomy and sovereignty.
• Portugal has postponed its F-35 purchase, citing strategic concerns over U.S. geopolitical reliability, while Belgium is reconsidering additional orders.
• The French-made Rafale, seen as a more independent alternative, has limited adoption in Europe, with only Croatia and Greece operating the aircraft.
• The debate highlights broader tensions between European defense autonomy and reliance on U.S. military technology, especially under shifting U.S. foreign policy priorities.

3 Articles

Libération Le Point Le Journal du Dimanche