Rethinking Defense: Europe and Canada Move Away from U.S. F-35 Fighter Jets
In light of current geopolitical dynamics, several European countries and Canada are critically reassessing their purchases of American-made F-35 fighter jets. Prominent concerns stem from the unpredictable policies of the Trump administration, which have incited doubts about the reliability of U.S. defense commitments. Portugal has announced its intention to reconsider the F-35 purchase, citing U.S. political uncertainty and expressing a desire to explore European alternatives. Canada is also contemplating its multibillion-dollar F-35 deal amidst rising tension in trade relations. The shifting sentiments among NATO allies raise significant questions about the future of U.S. arms sales, with reports of orders being canceled. As allies worry over the safety and efficacy of acquiring military equipment from the United States, the F-35 jet, once hailed as a cutting-edge fighter, is now viewed as a costly burden potentially amounting to $2 trillion. These developments signal a possible shift in defense partnerships and procurement strategies across the Atlantic.
The Associated Press, POLITICO Europe, Breaking Defense, EurAsian Times, Reason, The Telegraph, Newsweek, Reuters, EURACTIV, Business Insider