Germany is contemplating the acquisition of eight additional F-35 fighter jets from U.S. defense giant Lockheed Martin (LMT), according to a military source. This potential purchase would supplement the 35 jets Germany has already ordered, as Berlin evaluates the associated costs.
Advanced Technology and Strategic Importance
The F-35 is regarded as the most advanced fighter jet in the world, equipped with cutting-edge sensors and technology that make it nearly undetectable by radar. In 2022, Germany decided to invest approximately 10 billion euros ($10.89 billion) to acquire 35 F-35 jets, including missiles and other weaponry. These jets are set to replace the aging Tornado, which has been the only German aircraft capable of carrying U.S. nuclear bombs stored in Germany since the 1980s.
Deployment and Future Plans
The German Air Force plans to phase out the Tornado between 2025 and 2030, with the F-35s being stationed at an air base near Buechel from 2027. The first eight F-35s are scheduled for delivery in 2026 and will be based in the U.S. for pilot training. The new jets could potentially carry U.S. nuclear weapons, reinforcing Germany’s strategic military capabilities.
A Shift in Military Policy
Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced a “Zeitenwende” or new era of assertive foreign policy and increased military spending on February 27, 2022, shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In line with this shift, Germany established a 100-billion-euro special fund to modernize its military, aiming to meet NATO’s defense spending target of at least 2% of national GDP by 2024. The F-35 acquisition was the first major defense project financed by this special fund.
Funding Challenges for Additional Jets
However, financing the additional F-35 jets remains uncertain. The special fund has been nearly exhausted, and Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has not secured an increase in the 2025 regular defense budget during current budget negotiations. Pistorius warns that without additional funding, the German military’s procurement efforts could face significant delays, potentially paralyzing future investments.
Germany’s exploration of further F-35 acquisitions underscores its commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities amidst evolving global security challenges. As Berlin navigates budgetary constraints, the future of its military modernization efforts remains closely watched by both domestic and international observers.