Aviation News – Germany has officially moved to downplay reports suggesting it is preparing to increase its order of F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters, with a government spokesperson confirming there are currently no plans for additional aircraft. The clarification follows a Reuters report indicating that internal discussions were underway to acquire dozens more jets as a hedge against the struggling Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program.
The controversy stems from the deteriorating partnership between Berlin and Paris over the 100-billion-euro FCAS project, which aims to develop a sixth-generation fighter by 2040. While Germany placed an initial order for 35 F-35A jets in 2022 to maintain its NATO nuclear-sharing commitments, recent reports suggested this number could more than double. This potential pivot toward American military technology has fueled diplomatic friction, as France continues to advocate for European strategic autonomy over reliance on U.S. defense contractors like Lockheed Martin.
The F-35A serves a critical technical role for the Luftwaffe, acting as the sole platform certified to carry modern B61 nuclear bombs. By integrating this fifth-generation stealth capability, Germany aims to replace its aging Tornado fleet, which is slated for decommissioning. Operationally, expanding the F-35 fleet would provide Berlin with immediate combat readiness and a “Plan B” should the FCAS project—currently deadlocked over industrial workshare and design authority—fail to move into its next development phase.
