Several European Countries Ordering F-35s May Increase Dependence on the U.S.

Reference News Network reported on October 25 According to AFP on October 22, the U.S. Pentagon announced on the 22nd that it will purchase at least 850 additional F-35 stealth fighters from Lockheed Martin over the next decade. This model is considered to dominate in Europe, despite some skepticism regarding its high costs and the resulting over-reliance of Europe on the United States.

According to reports, the F-35 fighter jet was developed and launched by the world's largest arms manufacturer, Lockheed Martin, and is currently used or ordered by many of the United States' allies, including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, Poland, and Germany.

This fighter jet, according to Lockheed Martin, has better stealth capabilities than France's "Rafale" and Sweden's "Gripen," primarily relying on reducing radar detection chances and a sensor system that exchanges and shares battlefield data. Competing European models emphasize the multifunctionality and endurance of the aircraft.

Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken stated in the summer of 2025: "Putin is not afraid of Europe's 'Typhoon,' 'Rafale,' or 'Gripen'; he is worried about the F-35 because he can't see it! The advantages of the latter are beyond discussion."

Eric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, which produces the "Rafale," criticized Denmark in 2025 for continuing to procure F-35s despite Trump's threats to occupy Greenland. In Denmark, Trump's threats regarding Greenland also sparked criticism of military dependence on the United States.

Reports indicate that some Danish politicians regret the procurement of F-35s, fearing that the U.S. may restrict the use of these aircraft; however, the Danish government defends its decision by citing 75 years of military cooperation with the United States.

The F-35 is also a central issue of debate in Canada. In March 2025, facing a tense trade relationship with the United States, the Trudeau government announced it would review the order for 88 F-35s to determine whether this approach remains the best choice. Ottawa is now considering procuring other aircraft, including the "Gripen."

Reports point out that the United States has sold a large number of F-35s to NATO allies, and its customers also include Switzerland, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Israel, and Singapore. For most NATO member countries, the F-35 still holds an advantage in interoperability with U.S. forces and stealth capabilities.

In 2019, then French Defense Minister Florence Parly stated: "There is a fifth article (collective defense) in the NATO Charter, but there is no F-35 article." She implicitly criticized U.S. policy, believing it promotes the purchase of American military equipment by allies.

According to reports, the F-35 fighter jet is considered to have excellent technology, but its operational complexity also creates difficulties in use, especially regarding software and compatibility with other systems.

Critics also point out its high flying costs, estimating that its hourly flying cost exceeds $36,000. They are concerned about long-term sustainability issues and question its adaptability to conflicts occurring in the Pacific. In conflicts in that region, long-distance flights and the vulnerability of bases may limit its practical use. (Translated by Lu Longjun)