For a long time, the F-35 seemed like the logical successor to Portugal’s aging F-16 fleet. However, citing the current global situation, the outgoing government has decided not to place an order with Lockheed Martin.
The world’s most advanced fighter jet appeared destined for Lisbon, especially after the Portuguese military expressed its preference for the F-35 last year. A €5.5 billion budget had been set aside for a 20-year fleet renewal plan.
However, the deal will not go through. The outgoing defense minister, Nuno Melo, heavily weighed the geopolitical environment in the decision. He told Publico that ‘recent U.S. positions regarding NATO’ have made Portugal question the predictability of its American partner.
Everything has changed
According to Defense Minister Nuno Melo, the current situation is no longer comparable to last year. ‘The world has changed,’ he stated. Portugal wants to avoid potential risks related to maintenance restrictions, spare parts, and everything associated with them. He emphasized that new fighter jets must remain operational in all scenarios.
Portugal will now seek European-made fighter jets to replace its aging F-16 fleet. However, this decision comes at the cost of quality. According to defense expert Jens Franssen of VRT NWS, no European aircraft comes close to the capabilities of the F-35.