The Spanish government has decisively shelved plans to acquire the U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, opting instead to strengthen its military capabilities with European alternatives such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS). This move marks a significant pivot in Spain’s defense procurement strategy amidst growing geopolitical tensions with the United States and reflects broader European ambitions for strategic autonomy.
Initial Consideration by Spain
Spain had initially considered purchasing the fifth-generation stealth F-35 aircraft, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, to modernize its air force and navy fleets. The 2023 budget included a €6.25 billion allocation toward replacing aging aircraft like the Harrier AV-8B and McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet fighters. The naval aviation branch was particularly interested in the F-35B variant, capable of short takeoff and vertical landing, to succeed the retiring Harriers by 2030. Meanwhile, the air force viewed the F-35A as a potential interim solution until FCAS development matures.
However, in a strategic recalibration, Spain suspended all preliminary contacts for the F-35 purchase indefinitely and redirected focus toward European projects. The Spanish defense ministry confirmed that the country will prioritize investments in the Eurofighter—a 4.5-generation multirole fighter jointly produced by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo—and the FCAS, a next-generation sixth-generation fighter jet currently under development by Dassault Aviation, Airbus, and Indra Sistemas. The FCAS program, though ambitious, is not expected to be operational until around 2040, presenting a long-term goal for Spain’s air power modernization.
Several factors influenced this decision. Key among them was Madrid’s intent to allocate the majority of an additional €10.5 billion defense budget for European projects, aligning with broader EU goals for defense sovereignty. Spain’s refusal to further increase defense spending to 5% of GDP—beyond the NATO target of 2%—drew sharp criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who linked increased defense contributions to trade relations, threatening tariffs on Spanish goods. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been vocal against the 5% spending target, citing economic constraints and social priorities, heightening Spanish-American tensions.
Geopolitical Shifts
Beyond budgetary constraints, geopolitical considerations played a crucial role. Rising doubts about reliance on U.S. military technology and the associated operational dependencies, such as software control and logistical chains managed by U.S. authorities, have spurred a desire among European nations to build more autonomous defense capabilities. This wariness has been expressed not only by Spain but also by other NATO countries like Portugal and Switzerland, which have reconsidered or paused their F-35 procurement plans. Concerns that U.S. political shifts might interrupt or complicate allied operations have catalyzed a renewed commitment to regional defense projects.
Industrial and Strategic Recalibration
Spain’s decision also reflects industrial and strategic calculations. As a member of the Eurofighter consortium, Spain benefits economically and politically by expanding its Eurofighter fleet. The country signed a contract in late 2024 for 25 additional Eurofighters, with deliveries planned between 2026 and 2030. This move preserves domestic jobs, secures sovereign control over maintenance and upgrades, and aligns with European efforts to reduce dependency on U.S. defense exports.
The decision comes at a time when the F-35 program faces challenges including soaring costs, technical delays, and operational mishaps internationally, further reducing confidence among some US allies. Moreover, competing European projects, while delayed, symbolize the continent’s ambition to lead future air combat capabilities independently from America. Such momentum for European defense autonomy is expected to shape the military landscape well into the mid-21st century.
Also Read: Can NATO Afford to Let Spain opt Out of Its New Defense Strategy?
While Spain’s choice strengthens its ties with European defense initiatives, it leaves a gap in naval aviation capabilities. The Spanish Navy’s Juan Carlos I aircraft carrier, currently deploying Harrier jets, will face an absence of a suitable fifth-generation Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing (STOVL) replacement like the F-35B for the foreseeable future, relying instead on helicopters and legacy aircraft.
Spain’s move to reject the U.S. F-35 in favor of European fighter jets is a clear testament to changing defense priorities influenced by economic constraints, political discord with Washington, and an increasing focus on strategic independence within the EU framework. This decision underscores the evolving transatlantic relationship, as traditional NATO allies reassess their defense dependencies amidst shifting geopolitical realities.
