Tensions between NATO and the United States due to US policy on Ukraine and President Trump’s escalating trade war are jeopardising the alliance’s joint air power strategy. As a result, several NATO member states are reconsidering their plans to procure F-35 fighter jets.
F-35 Hesitation Among NATO Countries
The F-35 fighter jet is currently in service with 19 countries, including non-NATO nations such as South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Israel, alongside the United States. However, as many NATO members prepare to replace their ageing air fleets with dozens of F-35s, recent developments could disrupt these plans.
Portugal’s Defence Minister has announced that the decision to replace 28 F-16 fighter jets with the F-35 Lightning II is being reconsidered due to the “latest US stance within the NATO context.” In Canada, newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney has ordered a review of the country’s decision to purchase a total of 88 F-35s. Meanwhile, Germany’s order of 35 aircraft is also being questioned.
F-35: Advantages and Controversies
The Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) programme, which led to the development of the F-35, was initially designed to enhance NATO’s collective air power. With advanced stealth capabilities, air-to-air combat proficiency, ground attack capabilities, and reconnaissance features, the F-35 is considered the best in its class, despite cost overruns and technical issues.
Aviation consultant Richard Aboulafia warned that NATO abandoning the F-35 could negatively impact joint operational capabilities. “Using the same aircraft across NATO provides numerous advantages, from communication to munitions integration,” he stated.
Alternatives: Saab Gripen Gains Attention
For countries reconsidering their F-35 purchases, the Swedish-made Saab JAS-39 Gripen is emerging as a viable alternative. Although it lacks the same stealth capabilities, it is more cost-effective, has lower maintenance costs, and offers faster delivery times.
‘Kill Switch’ Concerns and US Trust Issues
European media reports have fuelled concerns that the US might have the ability to remotely disable F-35 aircraft, sparking debates over trust within the alliance. While NATO officials have denied these claims, the rumours are seen as a reflection of the growing mistrust among allies during the Trump era.
Margaret Kosal from Georgia Tech University commented: “This represents a lack of trust in the US. It could be a critical fracture for NATO’s unity.”
F-35 Debates Intensify in the US
The F-35 programme is not only controversial within NATO but also faces criticism in the US over its cost and performance. The Government Accountability Office estimates the programme’s total cost at over $2 trillion. Figures such as Elon Musk and members of the House of Representatives have criticised the F-35 as overly expensive and complex, arguing that shifting towards unmanned aerial vehicles might be a better option.
However, Seth Jones from the Centre for Strategic and International Studies emphasised that the F-35 remains unmatched in terms of “stealth, intelligence gathering, and air superiority,” stating that there is currently no viable alternative.
Could European Defence Identity Strengthen?
Trump’s criticism of NATO and Europe’s growing discomfort with dependence on the US could pave the way for new defence procurement strategies within the continent. Countries like Portugal and Canada are increasingly considering European-based defence solutions.
