Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35, is facing challenges in completing an upgrade known as Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3), which has pushed back delivery schedules. This delay is prompting European nations to explore alternative options, such as borrowing or buying aircraft from other F-35 users in order to mitigate the impact on their defence capabilities.
Despite the setbacks, some countries like Norway and the Netherlands, which already operate most of their F-35 fleet, may experience less immediate urgency. However, delays in deliveries to other European customers like Belgium, Finland, Poland, and Germany could prolong the use of legacy fighters. As European nations navigate these challenges, they must remain adaptable and proactive in addressing potential disruptions to their defence strategies.
Overall, In the face of evolving security threats, maintaining a robust and modernized defence infrastructure remains the most important for ensuring the safety and security of nations across Europe and beyond.
About the author:
Mario Blokken is Director of the Permanent Secretariat of the Finabel -European Army Interoperability Centre.
