DefenseAirbus Signs Memorandum with AED in Lisbon for Eurofighter Promotion
Airbus and the Portuguese Aeronautics, Space and Defence Cluster (AED) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Lisbon to advance the Eurofighter Typhoon as a candidate to replace Portugal’s F-16 fighters fleet. The agreement was formalized during a ceremony attended by senior executives and government representatives.
The memorandum seeks to enhance industrial cooperation and explore new collaboration opportunities with more than 30 Portuguese suppliers. Airbus highlighted the potential for the Eurofighter program to support nearly 1,600 jobs locally.
Portugal intended to order the 5th-generation F-35 fighter jet, but decided to reopen a tender following statements by US President Donald Trump against NATO.
Since then, the government has been considering options to modernize its combat aircraft inventory, with the Eurofighter, Saab Gripen, and Dassault Rafale vying for the chance to replace the aging F-16s. The government has not yet specified the requirements or a timeline for the potential acquisition.
Portugal’s F-16s have been in service since the 1990s and have undergone several upgrades. The country has participated in NATO missions, necessitating reliable and modern air defense capabilities.
Airbus officials in Lisbon did not disclose pricing details but indicated that the offer would be competitive. Discussions between the government and industry stakeholders are ongoing as Portugal reviews available fighter platforms.
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