Defence
Germany seeks more F-35 jets as European fighter programme falters, sources say
Amid delays and disputes in the FCAS program, Germany is reportedly exploring additional F-35 purchases, potentially reshaping European defense cooperation and NATO dynamics.
Germany is reportedly considering increasing its F-35 fighter jet purchases from the United States, according to sources cited by Reuters. This comes amid growing challenges in the European Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program—a joint sixth-generation fighter jet development effort involving Germany, France, Spain, and observer partner Belgium.
The FCAS program, launched in 2017 with a projected deployment around 2040, has faced persistent hurdles, including disputes over technology sharing, industrial rivalries between French Dassault Aviation and Airbus entities, and disagreements on design and leadership roles.
Recent statements by German Chancellor Frederick Merz suggest that the collaboration may not meet Germany’s current military requirements, raising doubts about whether the program can deliver on schedule—or at all.
Germany has already ordered F-35 jets in 2022 to replace aging Tornado aircraft under NATO nuclear-sharing rules, with deliveries expected from 2026. Sources indicate Berlin is now exploring the possibility of expanding this fleet, potentially doubling its F-35 inventory.
Each aircraft costs nearly $80 million, which would increase Germany’s reliance on U.S. Lockheed Martin technology and further align with U.S. encouragement for NATO allies to boost defense spending.
While the German government states there is currently no official plan to buy more F-35s, exploratory discussions are reportedly underway. If FCAS fails or is abandoned, acquiring additional F-35s could serve as a practical alternative to maintain a modern, fifth-generation fighter capability.
The situation highlights broader European defense trends: rising security concerns from Russia, challenges in achieving strategic autonomy through collaborative programs like FCAS, and increased reliance on U.S.-supplied technology. Expanding Germany’s F-35 fleet could strengthen transatlantic ties but may strain France-Germany defense cooperation and EU-wide autonomy goals.
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