Portuguese Air Force Has Not Ruled Out F-35 Fighter Jet Yet
While the Portuguese Defense Minister is no longer considering a potential acquisition of the Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jet, the country’s air force has not yet ruled out the 5th generation aircraft.
According to Major General João Nogueira, who heads the weapons systems maintenance directorate, the stealth fighter is a very attractive alternative, despite the controversy with the Trump administration.
Speaking at a press conference last week, Nogueira noted that Portugal currently participates in the European Partner Air Force (EPAF) and the Multi National Fighter Programme for the F-16 fighter jet, which includes countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark and Norway.
These programs involve sharing support for the aircraft in addition to upgrade projects, which means lower operational costs.
The four NATO nations, however, are moving to the F-35, which would be a natural fit for Portugal.
Alternatives in Europe
“The F-35 is fifth-generation, and that is an important step we need to look at,” the general said, according to Flight Global.
“That is not to say we are not looking at other options. There are pros and cons that we need to put in our analysis, and give to the politicians all the information they need.”
In March, Portugal’s Defense Minister Nuno Melo declared that the F-35 was out of the question given the instability created by the new US President Donald Trump, a fierce critic of Europe.
The Portuguese Air Force currently operates 25 upgraded F-16A/B fighters, which are expected to remain in service until the end of the decade.
Alternatives to the F-35 include the Dassault Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, the Saab Gripen E and, perhaps, Turkey’s TAI KAAN, a 5th generation fighter under development.
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