German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius continues to be determined about the F-35 fighter jets that Germany will purchase from the US. The F-35 purchase process, which is considered an important step in the government’s defense strategy, is seen as a step that will strengthen Germany’s position within NATO. Pistorius said in a statement, “The US continues to be an important ally for us, and this is also critical in terms of the equipment of the Bundeswehr (German Army). This statement emphasizes Germany’s strong alliance and defense cooperation with the US.
F-35 and International Cooperation
The purchase of F-35 fighter jets is an important turning point in Germany’s defense policies. Minister Pistorius stated that the F-35 is of great importance not only for Germany but for all NATO members. Emphasizing the international dimension of the project, the Minister said, “The F-35 is a multinational project and its basic parts are being produced outside the US. Germany is also involved in this process, for example, the Rheinmetall company is producing in Germany.” This shows that the F-35 project is being shaped by contributions from many countries, not just the US.
While eight countries are involved in the production process of the F-35, 14 NATO countries and a total of 20 countries use these aircraft or plan to use them in the future. This partnership is considered a step that will strengthen Germany's role in the global defense market not only in terms of security but also in economic terms.
Trump Era and F-35 Discussions
The F-35 debate in Germany has been particularly heated under the influence of former US President Donald Trump. The Trump administration’s approach to questioning Europe’s independence in the field of defense has led some in Germany to hesitate about arms cooperation with the US. However, Pistorius argues that the F-35 is of vital importance not only for the security of the US but also for Europe.
Pistorius stated that the purchase of F-35s would provide Germany with access to nuclear deterrence, and that these aircraft would fill the gap that would emerge as the Tornadoes age. He also denied the claims of a “kill switch” for remotely shutting down the F-35, and emphasized that such news was false.
F-35 Discussions in Germany and Internal Reactions
In Germany, especially the statements of Christian Democratic Union (CDU) foreign policy expert Roderich Kiesewetter, questioning the US control of the F-35, have fueled internal debates on the purchase of the F-35. Kiesewetter stated that the F-35 is essentially a system under US control and suggested that Germany purchasing these aircraft could have long-term strategic consequences.
These criticisms were also brought up by some labor unions and civil society organizations in Germany. For example, Airbus workers' councils demanded that arms purchases from the United States be stopped and that Germany take a leading role in military aircraft production. In particular, it was emphasized that Germany should strengthen its own defense industry.
Germany’s decision on the F-35 fighter jets will shape not only the country’s defense policies but also Germany’s international relations. The F-35 purchase will further strengthen its strategic partnership with the United States and reinforce Germany’s role in NATO. However, internal debates and external criticism will show how Germany’s defense strategy will evolve over time.
