تلاش بیشتر آلمان برای خرید جنگنده‌های F-35 آمریکایی

آلمان بار دیگر بر تعهد خود برای خرید جنگنده‌های پیشرفته F-35 ساخت ایالات متحده تأکید کرده است. این تصمیم بخشی از تلاش‌های آلمان برای تقویت توان دفاعی ملی و عمل به تعهدات خود در ناتو است. According to German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, the F-35 aircraft play a crucial role in modernizing the German Air Force and maintaining NATO’s nuclear deterrent capabilities.

Buying the F-35 aircraft will allow Germany to replace its aging Tornado fleet and maintain its nuclear deterrent capabilities while also upgrading its military readiness through the use of new generation technology. The F-35 is considered a strategic option for Germany due to its advanced features, including electronic warfare capabilities, high situational awareness, and ability to penetrate heavily defended areas.

Germany’s decision to buy the F-35 is not only about modernizing its air force but also reflects the continuation of robust defense relations between Germany and the United States. Defense Minister Pistorius stated in an interview with the dpa news agency, “The United States is an important ally for us, and this applies not only to the F-35 but also to other defense projects.” This statement reflects Germany’s dependence on the United States’ advanced defense technologies and industrial cooperation between the two countries.

Recently, reports have emerged suggesting that the United States may have the ability to limit Germany’s operational use of the F-35 under certain circumstances. An examination of the purchase contract shows that the Pentagon has the right to stop operational missions in “extraordinary and emergency” situations related to US national interests. Additionally, control over the software and maintenance aspects of the F-35 are in the hands of the United States, which could potentially limit Germany’s operational independence. However, the German Ministry of Defense has denied these concerns, stating that it is not possible to disable the aircraft remotely.

The purchase of 35 F-35A aircraft, finalized in December 2022, is part of a broad German strategy to modernize its military forces. This program, with a budget of 8.3 billion euros, aims to replace the aging Tornado fleet and maintain NATO’s nuclear deterrent capabilities. The first delivery of these aircraft is scheduled for 2026, and they are expected to be stationed at the Büchel airbase by 2027.

The F-35 is chosen by Germany due to its technological superiority and combat capabilities compared to other available aircraft. It is the only operational fifth-generation multirole aircraft in the world, featuring stealth capabilities, the ability to penetrate heavily defended areas, and the ability to perform precise strike missions, electronic warfare, and data collection with minimal risk of detection. Compared to fourth-generation aircraft like the Eurofighter Typhoon or Dassault Rafale, the F-35 has better survivability and offers the ability to integrate into multi-domain warfare and share data.

Defense Minister Pistorius also mentioned the international aspect of the F-35 program, stating, “Eight countries, including five European countries – Italy, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and the UK – have participated in the development of this aircraft. Additionally, 14 NATO member countries and a total of 20 countries will use or will use this aircraft in the future.” This broad community of users and shared supply chain demonstrate the role of the F-35 in enhancing cooperation among allies and increasing collective defense resilience.

In conclusion, as Germany rapidly strengthens its defense capabilities in the face of increasing Russian threats and the war in Ukraine, the purchase of F-35 aircraft is a crucial part of this strategy. This decision is not only a practical choice but also a strategic investment in maintaining effective deterrence, protecting national sovereignty, and demonstrating Germany’s commitment to collective NATO security. Despite the complexities associated with acquiring these aircraft, defense officials in Germany are determined to execute contracts according to plan and emphasize the critical role of F-35 aircraft in Germany’s future military capabilities. Germany’s decision to collaborate closely with the United States and invest in advanced military technologies is a calculated step towards maintaining its strategic independence and reinforcing its position as a leading power in NATO.