Summary
European nations refute claims that the U.S. has a “kill switch” for F-35 fighter jets, despite concerns raised after Trump suspended military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine.
While no evidence confirms such a switch, experts warn the U.S. could limit access to crucial software updates.
Belgium and Switzerland assert their F-35s remain autonomous but acknowledge reliance on U.S. data systems.
Set to receive 35 F-35s in 2026, some German politicians are questioning whether the purchase should have been made amid these concerns.
It hardly matters at this point. Europe, collectively or individually, should start working on their own jets. Just to be safe, or just to spite the orange cunt. Any reason is good, it’s high time anyway.
There are already some: Eurofighter, Saab Gripen, Dassault Rafale.
Although I remember a news story from like 7 years ago, where Austrias new Eurofighter jets couldn’t fly because they did not receive the GPS license from the US in time… So still dependent on the US, even for “domestic” jets, though that problem could probably be solved
You mean like Mirage 2000 or Rafale? France was right on this at least, they have their own jets, tanks, even nuclear aircraft carrier
SAAB Gripen: Am I a joke to you?
https://www.saab.com/products/gripen-e-series
The Germans wanted that, but the US told them that their nukes stationed in Europe will only be allowed to be loaded onto a US-made jet.
So in order to not lose a large part of the current nuclear deterrent, and to not strain relations with the US, one of Germany’s closest allies, they agreed to buy the F-35.