Portugal Cancels F-35 Procurement Amid Trump Influence
**Portugal has officially decided to abandon its plans for procuring the advanced F-35 fighter jets, a move attributed largely to the influence of former President Donald Trump.** The Portuguese government had initially considered replacing its aging fleet of U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets with the more modern F-35. However, this decision marks a significant instance of a U.S. president seemingly impacting international arms deals.
The outgoing Portuguese Defense Minister, Nuno Melo, highlighted the importance of considering the current geopolitical climate when making such significant defense choices. In a recent interview with Público, Melo noted, “We cannot ignore the geopolitical environment in our choices. The recent position of the U.S. within NATO should compel us to rethink our best options, as the predictability of our allies is a larger entity that must be taken into account.” This statement underscores the shifting dynamics within NATO and the consideration of national security.
Concerns have been raised regarding potential limitations imposed by the U.S. government on the operational capabilities of the F-35, stemming from Trump’s provocative remarks regarding Greenland and Canada. According to a Politico report, these comments have amplified fears that future software updates and spare parts critical for the F-35 could be restricted. Melo stated, “The world has changed…and our ally can impose limitations on everything related to the operational use, maintenance, components, and the deployment of aircraft under any scenario.”
Alternative considerations for Portugal have been suggested, particularly looking towards European defense production. The Dutch Defense Minister, Ruben Brekelmans, reaffirmed earlier this week that the Netherlands will not cancel its contract for the F-35, indicating a diverging path between the two nations. This showcases the varying perspectives among NATO allies regarding U.S. defense partnerships.
In April 2024, Air Force Commander João Cartaxo Alves expressed ambitions for the Portuguese Air Force to acquire F-35 fighter jets in an interview with Diário de Notícias. However, he did not disclose specific numbers for the potential purchase. Alves stated, “The arrival of new aircraft does not happen in a day. This process has already begun.” His comments reflect a long-term strategy, recognizing the transition’s complexity and duration.
Emphasizing the logistical challenges, Alves noted that transitioning to fifth-generation fighter jets involves extensive planning and cooperation with partners like Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force. He projected that integrating the new aircraft would take roughly 20 years, with a budget of approximately 5.5 billion euros. The first deliveries of the F-35s are anticipated to occur seven years from now, aiming to align Portugal with its European allies in modernizing their air capabilities.
While Portugal grapples with its decision over the F-35, similar debates regarding the aircraft’s procurement continue in Canada. The potential ramifications of shifting alliances and defense dynamics within NATO raise significant questions about the future of international military collaborations as countries reassess their defense strategies in light of political changes.
