Goodbye F-35: France seizes moment as Europe rethinks US fighter jets
Uncertainty over the US commitment to NATO and the high costs of the F-35 fighter jets have led European countries to consider homegrown defense solutions.
The once-unquestioned dominance of the US-made F-35 Lightning II in European air forces is facing a growing challenge. As concerns mount over the United States' commitment to NATO and the soaring cost of the advanced fighter jet, several European nations are reconsidering their purchases—creating a golden opportunity for France and its Rafale fighter jet.
Why European nations are turning away from the F-35
Recent shifts in US foreign policy, including debates over Washington’s role in NATO, have left many European allies wary of over-reliance on American military technology. This uncertainty is prompting countries like Portugal to explore European-made alternatives for modernizing their aging fighter fleets, aiming to bolster defense autonomy and reduce dependence on external suppliers.
The Rafale’s moment to shine
Amid this shifting defense landscape, France is aggressively positioning its Dassault Rafale as a top-tier alternative. The French government has pledged over €13 billion ($14 billion) in combat aviation investments over the next decade, funding the production of new Rafales, the development of the cutting-edge F5 variant, and joint projects like the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) with Germany and Spain.
Buy #Europe!#Typhoon #Rafale pic.twitter.com/n1opxtOW7i
— Boris Alexander Beissner (@boris_beissner) March 18, 2025
These upgrades will equip the Rafale with state-of-the-art technology, making it an increasingly attractive option for European air forces seeking advanced capabilities without the financial and logistical burdens of the F-35.
A new era for European defense?
The shift towards European-made fighters like the Rafale could reshape the continent’s defense industry. Beyond benefiting France, this trend is fostering stronger collaboration among European nations on next-generation military projects such as the FCAS, which aims to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet. By prioritizing European defense solutions, nations are working toward greater strategic independence and reduced reliance on US military hardware.
Cost vs. capability: the deciding factor
While the F-35 boasts cutting-edge stealth and combat systems, its high acquisition and maintenance costs remain a sticking point. In contrast, the Rafale offers a compelling balance of advanced capabilities and more manageable operational expenses, making it a logical choice for countries looking to upgrade their air forces without straining defense budgets.
Portugal’s move to explore alternatives could set a precedent for other European nations currently evaluating their air force modernization plans. If this trend continues, it could drive broader adoption of European-built fighter jets, strengthening the continent’s defense industry and reinforcing Europe’s push for greater military self-sufficiency.
Original article written by María Dávila, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Greg Heilman.
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