Spain Rejects F-35, Opting for European Fighter Jet Alternatives

spain Shelves F-35 Purchase, Turns to european Fighter Jets

Madrid – In a meaningful shift in defence strategy, Spain has announced it will forgo the acquisition of US-made F-35 fighter jets, opting instead for European alternatives. The decision, revealed by the defense ministry on Wednesday, comes amid escalating tensions wiht the United States over defense spending commitments.

The move follows pressure from US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly called on European union nations to increase defense investments, demanding a collective $600 billion contribution. Spain’s reluctance to meet Trump’s demand for a 5.0 percent of GDP allocation to defense appears to be a key factor in the decision.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government had initially allocated €6.25 billion ($7.25 billion) in the 2023 budget for new fighter jets. Reports had suggested Spain was considering purchasing up to 50 F-35 units, manufactured by Lockheed Martin. However, plans to utilize the additional €10.5 billion in defense spending announced this year will now prioritize European-made options.

The Spanish defense ministry confirmed the focus will be on the Eurofighter, a multi-role aircraft developed by a consortium of European companies, and future fighter jets stemming from the European Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project, led by Dassault Aviation and Airbus.this represents a strategic move towards bolstering European defense capabilities and reducing reliance on US military technology.

Sánchez had previously committed to meeting the NATO target of 2.0 percent of GDP for defense spending by 2024. However, his refusal to extend this commitment to the 5.0 percent level demanded by Trump led to threats of additional tariffs on Spanish goods.

The Broader Implications

Spain’s decision highlights a growing trend among European nations to assert greater strategic autonomy in defense.While NATO remains a cornerstone of European security, there’s an increasing desire to develop independent capabilities and reduce dependence on the United States, notably considering shifting geopolitical landscapes.

The FCAS project, in particular, represents a long-term investment in European defense innovation.It aims to create a next-generation fighter jet system, incorporating advanced technologies and fostering collaboration between key European aerospace players. This move positions Spain at the forefront of this initiative.

The shift away from the F-35 also underscores the complex interplay between economic pressure and defense policy. Trump’s aggressive tactics, while aimed at increasing European defense spending, may inadvertently push allies towards diversifying their procurement sources and strengthening their own defense industries.

Related: What the Trump-Sánchez Nato standoff means for spain

What are the primary economic benefits Spain anticipates from prioritizing the FCAS program over the F-35?

The Shift in Spanish Defense Strategy

Spain has officially moved away from plans to acquire the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jet, signaling a significant shift towards bolstering european defense capabilities and prioritizing collaborative projects. This decision, confirmed in late 2024 and solidified in early 2025, represents a strategic realignment within the Spanish Air and Space Force (Ejército del Aire y del Espacio) and a commitment to the future Combat Air System (FCAS). The move impacts the global aerospace market and highlights growing European ambitions for self-sufficiency in defense technology.

Why the F-35 Was Dropped

Several factors contributed to Spain’s decision to abandon the F-35 program. These include:

Cost Concerns: The F-35’s lifecycle costs, including maintenance, upgrades, and ammunition, proved prohibitive for the Spanish defense budget.

Industrial Participation: Spain sought greater industrial participation in the program, including technology transfer and local manufacturing opportunities, which were not adequately guaranteed by the US.

European Collaboration: A strong desire to support and invest in European defense projects, particularly the FCAS, took precedence. Spain is a key partner in the FCAS program alongside Germany and France.

Political Considerations: Increasing calls for greater European strategic autonomy and reduced reliance on US defense systems influenced the decision-making process.

The FCAS: Spain’s Primary Focus

The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) is now central to Spain’s long-term air combat strategy. This ambitious program aims to develop a next-generation fighter jet, along with associated technologies like drones, sensors, and weapons systems.

Key Components of FCAS:

Next Generation Fighter (NGF): The core of the FCAS, designed to replace existing Eurofighter Typhoons and Rafales.

Remote Carriers: Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) acting as loyal wingmen to the NGF.

Next Generation Weapon Systems: Advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry.

Air Combat Cloud: A networked system connecting all elements of the FCAS, enabling enhanced situational awareness and data sharing.

Spain’s Role in FCAS: Spain is responsible for developing key components of the FCAS, including sensor technologies and the combat cloud infrastructure. This ensures significant industrial benefits and technological expertise within the country.

Choice Fighter Jet Options Considered

while FCAS is the long-term solution, Spain is evaluating several interim fighter jet options to address immediate operational needs. These include:

Eurofighter Typhoon Upgrade: Investing in further upgrades to the existing Eurofighter Typhoon fleet to extend its service life and enhance its capabilities. This is currently the most likely short-term solution.

Saab Gripen E/F: The Swedish Gripen E/F is a cost-effective multirole fighter jet that has been considered as a potential interim solution.

dassault Rafale: while already operated by France, the Rafale was briefly considered, but logistical complexities and the focus on FCAS made it a less attractive option.

Industrial Impact and Economic Benefits

Spain’s decision has significant implications for the country’s aerospace industry.

Increased Investment: The focus on FCAS will drive ample investment in Spanish defense companies, creating jobs and fostering innovation.

Technological Advancement: Participation in FCAS will allow Spanish companies to develop cutting-edge technologies in areas like artificial intelligence, sensor fusion, and advanced materials.

Export Opportunities: The technologies developed for FCAS could potentially be exported to other countries,generating revenue and strengthening Spain’s position in the global aerospace market.

Navantia’s Role: Spanish shipbuilder Navantia is also expected to play a role in the FCAS program, potentially contributing to the development of future naval variants.

European Defense Cooperation: A Growing Trend

Spain’s move aligns with a broader trend of increased European defense cooperation. Several initiatives are underway to enhance Europe’s strategic autonomy and reduce reliance on the United States.

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