DefenseThe change of mood of partner countries of the United States in the F-35 program caused yet another unforeseen situation, the rumors that the 5th generation aircraft would have a “kill switch”, a feature that would allow it to be deactivated remotely.
In a statement, the Joint Program Office (JPO), linked to the Pentagon and which manages the F-35 program, denied that such a device exists.
“There is no kill switch”, said the JPO. “The program operates under well-established agreements that ensure all F-35 operators have the necessary capabilities to sustain and operate their aircraft effectively.”
Lockheed Martin’s stealth fighter was selected by 19 countries, which are considered partners in the program, many of them NATO members.
The F-35 was rapidly advancing to become the alliance’s standard fighter, but President Donald Trump’s divisive rhetoric since the first days of his second term has caused European leaders to rethink their dependence on the US for defense.
Despite the unlikely hypothesis of a ‘kill switch’, there is genuine concern about the ability to maintain the F-35 if the United States cuts maintenance support, spare parts and fails to carry out necessary system upgrades.
In theory, the fighter could remain in service, but would be less capable of defending itself against enemy forces.
The F-35 is an open architecture aircraft, which remains relevant thanks to successive upgrade packages such as the most recent, TR-3 (Technical Refresh), which, although very capable, has delayed production of the jets.
Portugal and Canada rethink acquisition, Germany under pressure
The anti-NATO bias and the Trump administration’s rapprochement with Russian President Vladimir Putin are causing profound revisions in European defense strategy. The understanding is that the continent can no longer depend on the United States to persuade Russia not to pursue its expansionist policy.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Tuesday that the country will receive 40 more upgraded Rafale fighter jets capable of launching hypersonic nuclear missiles. The aircraft will be based near the border with Germany, as a sign of their mission.
Meanwhile, Portugal was the first European nation to abandon plans to acquire the F-35. Germany, in turn, is under pressure from the country’s industry to replace US planes with European aircraft.
Even neighboring Canada, angered by Trump’s fallacies about annexing the country, is already looking for a way to cut its order for 88 F-35 fighter jets.
