Germany Weighs Additional F-35 Purchases Amid Fighter Program Uncertainty
Berlin is considering ordering more U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, a move that would increase Germany’s reliance on American military technology as its collaborative next-generation fighter program with France faces significant challenges. The potential acquisition comes as the Franco-German Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project stalls due to industrial disagreements.
According to two sources familiar with the discussions, Germany is exploring the purchase of over 35 additional F-35s. However, both sources cautioned that a final decision has not been made and the outcome remains uncertain. One source indicated that Berlin is currently engaged in negotiations regarding the potential purchase.
When asked for comment, a German government spokesperson denied any current plans to procure additional F-35 fighter jets. “There are no plans, and there is no decision,” the spokesperson stated. A spokesperson for the German defense ministry echoed this sentiment, confirming that there are currently “no concrete plans or political decisions” for the procurement of more F-35s.
Germany initially committed to purchasing 35 F-35 aircraft in 2022, with deliveries scheduled to begin later this year. The potential for a further order, at a cost exceeding $80 million per jet, underscores the growing complexities surrounding the FCAS program.
Franco-German Collaboration on the Rocks
The FCAS program, launched in 2017 with a budget of 100 billion euros (approximately $118 billion), aimed to replace France’s Rafale and Eurofighter aircraft by 2040. However, the project has been hampered by industrial rivalries between German and French companies.
Insiders suggest that Germany and France are likely to abandon the joint development of a new fighter jet, while continuing to cooperate on drones and the “combat cloud”—the digital infrastructure designed to connect manned and unmanned platforms within the FCAS system. This shift in focus reflects the difficulties in reaching a consensus on the core fighter jet component of the program.
The move towards potentially acquiring more F-35s represents a significant strategic consideration for Germany, particularly as it navigates the challenges of modernizing its air force and maintaining its defense capabilities. The decision highlights the ongoing debate within Germany regarding its defense priorities and its relationship with the United States as a key military partner.
The potential purchase also raises questions about the future of European defense cooperation and the ability of nations to overcome industrial and political obstacles in pursuit of joint military projects. While the FCAS program may evolve to focus on other areas, the difficulties encountered in developing a joint fighter jet serve as a cautionary tale for future collaborative efforts.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as Germany assesses its options and engages in ongoing discussions with the United States and France. The final decision on whether to proceed with the additional F-35 purchase will likely have significant implications for the future of German air power and European defense architecture.
