Germany is considering increasing its military might by acquiring an additional eight F-35 fighter jets from US defense giant Lockheed Martin, which will complement the 35 aircraft the country has already committed to purchase, marking a significant upgrade of its air force's capabilities, BTA reports.
F-35 jets, known for their stealth capabilities, are hailed as the pinnacle of modern fighter jet technology. Back in 2022, Germany made headlines by ordering 35 of these ultra-modern aircraft, along with a package of missiles and other armaments, for a whopping €10 billion ($10.89 million). The F-35s are equipped with advanced sensors and technology that make them virtually invisible to radar, according to Lockheed Martin.
The new jets are to replace Germany's aging fleet of Tornado jets, which have been in service since the 1980s and are the only planes capable of delivering US nuclear bombs stored in Germany. The plan is to phase out the Tornado between 2025 and 2030.
Deployment of the F-35 is scheduled to begin in 2027 at a German air base near Büchel, in the west of the country. The planes will be able to carry US nuclear weapons, continuing Germany's strategic defense capability. The initial batch of eight F-35s is expected to arrive in 2026, with pilots training in the US.
Germany's strategic move not only improves its defense capabilities, but also strengthens its partnership with the United States.