The Portuguese Air Force had previously recommended the acquisition of American fighters, but the outgoing Minister of Defence (Portugal holds early elections after the fall of the centre-right government) stated that erstwhile deciding to acquisition it should take into account the "predictability of our allies".
"We cannot ignore the geopolitical environment"
The air force of that country recommended the acquisition of Lockheed Martin F-35 fighters, but erstwhile the outgoing defence minister Nuno Melo was asked by the Portuguese paper ‘Publico’, whether the government would follow this recommendation, he replied:
Due to the unforeseeable actions of the United States under Donald Trump — who in his last message stated that he would annex Greenland and endanger Canada — The Portuguese minister expressed concerns that the US government may decide to block access to software updates and spare parts needed for the uninterrupted usage of the F-35.
"The planet has changed... and this ally of ours... can impose restrictions on the use, maintenance, components and all that has to do with ensuring that the aircraft will be operational and utilized in all types of scenarios," Melo said.
"There are respective options that request to be considered, especially in the context of European production", added the Portuguese Minister.
Dutch defence minister Ruben Brekelmans said earlier this week that the Netherlands would not cancel the jet contract. However, Lisbon has not yet signed the agreement.
