The Spanish government has made a groundbreaking decision for its military future: it rejects the purchase of American F-35 fighter jets and instead focuses on European alternatives. This step, which is in line with the European Union's efforts to reduce dependence on US defense technology, marks a realignment in Spanish defense strategy.
The decision was made against the background of the necessary decommissioning of the outdated AV-8B Harrierfleet by 2030 and the political tensions with the United States. Currently, intensive discussions are taking place on the future armament of the aircraft carrier Juan Carlos I discussed, as the procurement of new fighter aircraft will leave a temporary operational gap.
Farewell to the Harrier fleet: The search for a successor
The Spanish Navy has relied on the legendary AV-50B Harrier fighter jets for almost 8 years. These aircraft, known for their vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, are essential for operations on the aircraft carrier Juan Carlos I. But the Harrier's era is coming to an end. The United States and Italy, which also operated this aircraft type, are ending their support. This forces Spain to find a successor by 2030.
The F-35, especially the variant F-35B, which can also take off and land vertically, seemed for a long time to be the only logical choice. But the Spanish government has now decided not to pursue this path. A key reason for the rejection of the F-35 is its high cost, which ranges between 90 and 130 million euros per unit. The Spanish government believes these costs are incompatible with its own defense objectives.
Spain’s strategic reorientation envisages allocating 85 percent of defence spending to NATO target of 2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) to invest in European defense industries. This is a condition that cannot be met by purchasing American F-35 jets. The decision is a clear political signal that prioritizes strengthening the European defense industry over transatlantic cooperation.
European options at a glance: A difficult compromise
The rejection of the F-35 raises the question of what alternatives Spain is considering. Options on the European market are limited, each offering advantages and disadvantages.
- Eurofighter Typhoon: This proven fighter aircraft, manufactured by a European consortium and already in service with the Spanish Air Force, would be a natural choice. However, it lacks vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, making it unsuitable for operations on the aircraft carrier Juan Carlos I. However, it could play a role as a replacement for the F-18 fighters flown by the Spanish Air Force.
- Future Combat Air System (FCAS): This next-generation fighter is being developed by a consortium of France, Germany, and Spain. It is intended to surpass the F-35 in technological terms. However, the FCAS is not expected to be launched before 2040, which rules it out as an immediate successor to the Harrier fleet.
The Spanish government thus faces a dilemma. It must bridge an operational gap between 2030, when the Harrier fleet is decommissioned, and 2040, when the FCAS is expected to be operational. During this time, the aircraft carrier Juan Carlos I could temporarily operate only helicopters. This would have a significant impact on the military capability of the Spanish Navy. The need for strategic naval planning and possible adaptations to the ship will be crucial in the coming years.
Political implications: tension with the US and criticism of Trump
The Spanish decision to reject the F-35 has led to tensions with the United States. In particular, former and current US President Donald Trump has criticized Spain's stance. He accused the country of not increasing its defense spending sufficiently and even threatened to impose tariffs if Spain did not invest five percent of its GDP in defense. Trump's threat, which goes far beyond the 2 percent target demanded by NATO, underscores the political dimensions of the deal.
Spain's rejection of the F-35 also complicates a previously signed EU-US agreement that allowed European states to purchase large quantities of US defense equipment. Madrid's decision is a clear sign of a move away from this policy and toward greater European defense autonomy.
The Spanish defence modernisation programme amounting to 10,5 billion euros underscores this strategic shift. The country is investing heavily in its armed forces, but these investments are primarily intended to strengthen the European defense industry and promote the EU's technological independence.
Outlook: A bold but risky decision
Spain's decision not to purchase the F-35 is a bold step. It strengthens the position of the European defense industry and political relations within the EU. However, the decision also entails risks, in particular the looming operational gap on the aircraft carrier Juan Carlos I. The Spanish Navy will face major challenges in the coming years to ensure its operational readiness. The path Spain is taking signals a profound shift in European defense policy. EU member states are striving to develop their own military capabilities to become less dependent on the United States. Madrid's decision is an important milestone on this path and will significantly shape the debate on the future of European defense in the years to come.