US approves sale of 35 F-35A fighters to Germany for $8.4 billion

The State Department has approved a potential of $8.4 billion foreign military sale of F-35 aircraft, missiles, and related hardware to the German government. Today, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency submitted Congress with the appropriate documentation informing them of this potential transaction.

The plane would be an F-35A, which stands for conventional takeoff and landing. The prospective order includes 35 stealth fighters, 35 Pratt & Whitney F-135-PW-100 engines, plus two spares, maintenance assistance, training, and a variety of weapons, including bombs, air-to-air missiles, and air-to-surface missiles.

By strengthening the security of a NATO partner who is a key factor in the political and economic stability of Europe, the proposed sale will promote the foreign policy and national security of the United States.

The proposed sale will improve Germany’s ability to counter both present and future threats by providing a suitable replacement for its ageing Tornado aircraft fleet in support of NATO’s nuclear sharing responsibility, which is the cornerstone of deterrence in Europe. The German military will have no trouble utilising these resources.

This notice of potential sale is required by law. The description and dollar amount correspond to the highest expected quantity and sum of money based on initial requirements.

The actual monetary value will be lower depending on the final requirements, budget authorization, and signed sales agreement.