Spanish media: Spain gives up on US fighter jets, seeks European alternatives
According to a report by the Spanish newspaper "El País", citing sources from the Spanish government, Spain has frozen its plan to purchase the US F-35 Lightning II fifth-generation fighter jets and is now seeking alternatives made in Europe.
The report states: "Sources from the government said that the plan to procure the US fifth-generation fighter jet F-35 Lightning II for the Spanish armed forces has been finally put on hold. The preliminary negotiations that had already started have been indefinitely suspended."
The report says that the Spanish Air Force is waiting for the completion of the future combat air system (FCAS) sixth-generation fighter jet development, while also considering replacing its current F-18 fighter jets. The FCAS project's fighter jet is expected to be available as early as 2040. Before that, despite technical limitations, the military will continue to use the "Typhoon" (Eurofighter) fighter jet.
The report pointed out that the Spanish Navy plans to retire the AV-8B "Harrier" carrier-based aircraft, which has been in service for nearly 50 years, before 2030. Due to the fact that this model has been discontinued and spare parts are in short supply, extending its service life is no longer feasible. In order to maintain naval combat capabilities, the navy has commissioned the state-owned shipbuilding company "Navantia" to assess the construction of a new aircraft carrier with a full-length flight deck, so that it can later accommodate fighter jets such as the French "Rafale".
The report also said that Spain's decision to abandon the procurement of F-35s aligns with the government's policy direction of promoting European strategic autonomy and reducing dependence on the United States.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1839730307814473/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.