Spain Abandons F-35 Fighters and Shifts to European counterparts, Citing Apprehension towards Trump's Policies
In a significant shift in defence policy, Spain has decided against purchasing the U.S.-made F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter and instead is focusing on investing in European-produced aircraft. This decision reflects Spain’s strategic, industrial, and budgetary priorities to support European defense programs like the Eurofighter and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS).
The Spanish government's 2025 defence plan allocates around €10.471 billion, with a rule that 85% of funding must go to European programs. This rule makes the acquisition of the American F-35 incompatible with national spending and industrial policy goals.
Strategic concerns also played a role in Spain’s choice. Limited access to critical F-35 systems restricting integration of Spanish technologies, reliance on non-European suppliers, high costs of infrastructure and maintenance, and recent unilateral price increases by Lockheed Martin were all factors that influenced Spain’s decision.
Preliminary talks with the U.S. have been suspended indefinitely, and the Spanish defence ministry never advanced beyond a non-binding Request for Information regarding the F-35.
This move reflects Spain’s desire for strategic autonomy in defence and aligns with political decisions not to exceed a 2% GDP defence spending threshold, resisting pressures to increase to the 5% target promoted by NATO.
While most NATO members continue to invest in and operate the F-35 Lightning II, Spain is the notable exception. The Eurofighter Typhoon, a multi-role combat aircraft of the fourth generation, is under consideration as an alternative. The Eurofighter is considered equal or better than the F-35 as an aircraft, but the F-35 has a better mission equipment package.
The FCAS, an initiative by France, Spain, and Germany to develop a sixth-generation jet, is also under consideration. Relying solely on European capabilities means that countries would have to make decisions and potentially change their military structure.
Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has stated, "We need to buy more European weapons". Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has also emphasised the importance of European defence, stating, "only Europe will know how to protect Europe from now on."
The CEO of French Dassault Aviation, which produces the Mirage and Rafale aircraft, is ready to sell the Rafale fighter jet to countries concerned about the F-35. However, production levels could be a factor in choosing between the F-35 and the Eurofighter, as many fewer Eurofighters are produced each year, and the FCAS production has not yet begun.
Spain's navy has an aircraft carrier currently equipped with a squadron of aging Harrier jets that are due to retire. The F-35B could be used in this role, but not the Eurofighter or other European jets, which would require a switch.
Politicians in Switzerland have expressed concerns about purchasing 36 F-35As due to Trump’s imposed tariffs. Europe can potentially build enough fighter aircraft to meet demand if it brings all its available models, from Gripens to Rafales, to the table.
Trump's rhetoric and actions have caused new tensions between the USA and its long-standing allies. Trump described Spain's position towards other members as "very unfair" and threatened trade consequences without providing details. Trump also threatened the annexation of a European territory.
In summary, Spain's decision to invest in European-made aircraft for its air force marks a significant shift in defence policy, reflecting a desire for strategic autonomy and industrial support within Europe.
What industries does Spain plan to invest in for its defense strategy? - Finance, business, and defense
Why can't Spain purchase the F-35 Lightning II due to its funding and industrial policy goals? - The budget allocation rule requires 85% of funding to go to European programs, making the F-35 incompatible with these goals
