Berlin plans to expand its fleet of F-35 fighter jets

Germany is considering ordering more US-made F-35 fighter jets, two sources told Reuters. According to one of them, the negotiations could lead to the purchase of more than 35 aircraft, although the outcome is still uncertain.

Berlin already ordered 35 aircraft in 2022, with deliveries set to begin at the end of this year.

The potential purchase comes at a time when the joint German-French Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project, worth €100 billion, is stalled due to industrial rivalry. The project was intended to replace the Rafale and Eurofighter aircraft from 2040.

It is expected that the countries may abandon the development of a joint fighter jet but continue to cooperate on drones and a digital combat cloud system.

F-35 fighter jets would replace Tornado aircraft in transporting US B61 nuclear bombs stored in Germany. It is the only Western type certified to carry them. Chancellor Friedrich Merz also questioned the need to develop a sixth-generation manned fighter jet. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius noted that the fate of FCAS should be clear in the coming days.

(reuters, max)