NATO allies are currently reassessing their military procurement plans in light of growing apprehensions regarding US foreign policy shifts. This includes Germany's recent confirmation of its F-35 fighter jet procurement plans, as the nation strengthens its defense ties with the United States.
On March 24, 2025, Boris Pistorius, Germany’s Defence Minister, reiterated the country's commitment to the F-35 program, which has been a subject of broader European discussions about transatlantic defense relations amidst potential policy shifts under a future Trump administration. He stated, "Germany values its alliance with the United States not only in relation to the F-35 programme but across a wide range of military projects and cooperation frameworks," reported by Tagesschau.
Germany has ordered 35 F-35A aircraft through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, with the government-to-government agreement approved on December 14, 2022. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2026, initially sending the jets to Ebbing Air National Guard Base in the United States for pilot and crew training. From 2027, the first aircraft are scheduled to be stationed in Germany at Büchel Air Base, where they will play a central role in NATO’s nuclear-sharing arrangement, effectively replacing the aging Panavia Tornado IDS fleet currently assigned to carry US-supplied B61 nuclear bombs.
Amid these developments, other NATO allies are not as certain about their future military investments. There is growing unease over the United States' military policies and how they might impact international defense collaborations. Canada, for instance, is reconsidering its substantial deal to acquire F-35 fighter jets, indicating a preference for exploring alternative options rather than relying heavily on US-made aircraft.
This shift in focus among NATO partners not only reflects concerns over American policies but also underscores the broader reevaluation of military dependencies in the wake of recent geopolitical challenges.
While Germany reaffirms its commitment to acquiring the F-35s, other NATO countries remain cautious. Germany's Defence Ministry has also addressed speculation surrounding the functionality of the F-35, notably allegations that the United States could potentially disable the jets remotely. Responding to these concerns, a Defence Ministry spokesperson confirmed, "There is no way to simply shut down the F-35 remotely," emphasizing the integrated systems that characterize modern military aircraft.
In total, 14 NATO members and 20 countries worldwide either operate or plan to acquire the F-35. This highlights the jet's role as a symbol of collaborative multinational defense efforts involving eight countries, five of which are in Europe. Pistorius pointed out that many components of the jet are produced outside the United States, reflecting the project’s global production and supply chain.
The significance of the F-35 program extends beyond just Germany; it's indicative of a shifting landscape within NATO, where allies are grappling with the implications of reliance on the US military sector amid changing political climates. The recent apprehension regarding possible shifts in US foreign policy directly ties into Canada’s re-evaluation of its F-35 plans, reflecting a need for NATO allies to reconsider how they engage with the defense framework of the alliance.
Experts suggest that NATO partners might need to diversify their procurement strategies, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance while still fostering cooperative relationships. The broader implications of this could redefine the defense landscape in Europe, as some nations actively seek alternatives to US military equipment. In Portugal, for instance, discussions are underway to replace its fleet of F-16AM/BM fighters, with officials indicating that an open tender may be considered instead of a direct purchase of the F-35.
Germany's determination to procure F-35s highlights its commitment to NATO and reinforces the alliance’s strategic resolve. As the transatlantic partnership evolves in response to current challenges, the F-35 program remains a crucial element in maintaining operational readiness and collective defense among NATO allies. The looming question is whether other countries will align their military procurements similarly or seek to carve out a path that emphasizes independence from US influence in military matters.
In conclusion, the ongoing skepticism surrounding US foreign policy amidst shifting global dynamics is prompting NATO allies, including Canada and others, to critically assess their defense strategies and partnerships. As the future of military collaborations continues to unfold, the reactions of allied nations will play a pivotal role in determining the effectiveness and cohesion of NATO's collective security framework.
