Spain's Strategic Shift: Choosing Between European Fighter Jets
Spain opts out of acquiring the U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, focusing instead on European options like the Eurofighter and Future Combat Air System. This decision aligns with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's plan to boost defense spending within Europe, despite U.S. pressures for increased military investment.
Spain has officially decided against purchasing U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, according to a defense ministry spokesperson. The decision shifts focus to European-made options such as the Eurofighter and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS).
Sources confirmed that the Spanish government has shelved plans to acquire the F-35, manufactured by Lockheed Martin. The move follows reports in El Pais noting budget constraints and a strategic commitment to European defense initiatives, with 6.25 billion euros allocated for new jets in the 2023 budget.
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has emphasized boosting defense spending to meet NATO targets without succumbing to U.S. demands for 5% GDP expenditure. The U.S. has pushed for higher military investment, a stance criticized by former President Donald Trump, who also threatened economic repercussions.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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- Lockheed Martin
- F-35
- fighter jets
- Pedro Sanchez
- NATO
- Trump
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