GEOPOLITICS | Germany Considers Additional F-35 Purchases Amid Joint Fighter Jet Project Stalemate

Germany is contemplating the acquisition of more F-35 fighter jets from the United States due to a deadlock in the joint Franco-German next-generation fighter jet project. According to Jin10, German media reported on February 19 that negotiations between Germany and the U.S. involve the potential purchase of over 35 F-35 jets, each priced at approximately 80 million euros. In 2022, Germany had already ordered 35 F-35 jets from the U.S., with deliveries expected to commence later this year. The consideration for additional F-35 purchases arises from disagreements between Germany and France over the joint development of the next-generation fighter jet. This project was initially intended to enhance Europe's autonomy in the defense sector. However, a prolonged dispute between the two major participating companies, France's Dassault Aviation and Germany-based Airbus Defence and Space, has stalled progress. Dassault Aviation is seeking a dominant role in the project, leading to the current impasse.