This announcement clarifies recent media speculation, which the Air Force now suggests was largely fuelled by commentators rather than official sources. A preliminary recommendation to purchase the F-35A was already submitted to the Portuguese government in November 2023.
The Portuguese Air Force urgently needs a replacement for its current F-16AM/BM aircraft, which entered service in 1994. These jets have seen heavy use in national operations and NATO missions, including Baltic Air Policing.
Previous U.S. trade policy decisions during the Trump administration prompted some debate over whether Portugal might consider European alternatives. In March, the Portuguese Defence Minister noted that “the choice is open and under detailed analysis,” leaving room for a potential competitive tender process rather than a direct selection of the American model.
It remains possible that the U.S. may offer favourable financial terms to Portugal to secure the deal. As of now, Portugal is among the few NATO members that has not yet opted to procure aircraft from the F-35 family.
Lisbon’s decision mirrors similar considerations in Spain, where the government must choose a successor to its Boeing AV-8B Harrier II fleet. In both cases, the F-35—either the A or B variant—appears to be a leading candidate.
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