Spain’s Shift on F-35 Acquisition Raises Tensions with the U.S.
Spain’s recent decision marks a significant setback for Lockheed Martin, as the country issued a non-binding request for information on the F-35 back in 2017, reports 24brussels.
The 2023 Spanish budget allocated an initial €6.25 billion aimed at modernizing its air force and navy aircraft. This is crucial as the Spanish navy plans to retire its Harrier AV-8B fighters by 2030 and is looking to replace them with the naval variant of the F-35B, models that have already been acquired by the United States and Italy.
Additionally, the Spanish air force has considered the F-35A model as a temporary replacement for its aging McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornets while awaiting the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program.
This strategic shift could escalate existing tensions between Spain and the United States, particularly as Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has openly criticized NATO’s newly proposed defense spending target of 5 percent of GDP, championed by U.S. leadership.
Spain’s decisions reflect broader debates within NATO regarding defense capabilities and funding, as European nations navigate their military needs amid shifting alliances and international pressures.
As the situation develops, analysts will closely monitor the implications for transatlantic relations and Spain’s defense strategy in re-evaluating its military aircraft procurement at a time of increased geopolitical instability.
