Portugal declines F‑35 purchase, considers European fighters
In an interview with the Portuguese news agency Público, Portugal's Defence Minister Nuno Melo stated that he has rejected the possibility of acquiring fifth-generation F-35 fighters. His decision is influenced by the current policies of the Donald Trump administration and concerns that the US government might block access to software updates and spare parts necessary for the F-35's full operation.
"We cannot ignore the geopolitical environment in our choices. The recent position of the United States, in the context of NATO ... must make us think about the best options, because the predictability of our allies is a greater asset to take into account," Melo said.
Portugal does not want F-35 fighters
Melo noted that the world has already shifted, citing the U.S. elections and the positions taken by both the President and the Secretary of Defense on NATO and global affairs. He emphasised that these developments must be taken into account in Europe, particularly in relation to Portugal. While describing the U.S. as a long-standing and reliable ally, Portugese minister cautioned that potential restrictions could arise regarding the use, maintenance, components, and overall operational readiness of aircraft in various scenarios.
It's worth recalling that Portugal initially planned to purchase fifth-generation F-35 fighters and allocate €5.5 (£4.6) billion for this purpose. However, the agreement for their acquisition has not yet been signed. The new aircraft were intended to replace the 28 F-16AM/BM fighters currently in use by the Portuguese Air Force, which have been upgraded under the MLU (Midlife Upgrade) programme.
The Portuguese defence minister emphasised that although the Portuguese F-16s are nearing the end of their service life, Portugal is considering other options that will provide greater predictability and operational security. Among the alternatives being considered are European fighters, including the French Rafale.
One of the alternatives that Portugal may consider is the French Dassault Rafale multirole fighter, classified as a 4.5 generation aircraft. The Rafale is capable of intercepting air targets and effectively attacking ground targets and naval units. The French opted for a delta-canard design, which provides the fighter with excellent manoeuvrability, high aerodynamic stability, and the ability to operate at high angles of attack. The fuselage is largely made from composites, thus reducing the aircraft's weight and simultaneously decreasing its radar signature.
The Rafale is available in three variants – the single-seat C version for air forces, the two-seat B version, and the carrier-based M version, adapted for operations from aircraft carriers. The French fighter is powered by two Snecma M88 engines. The maximum speed of the Rafale is approximately 1,912 km/h, which corresponds to Mach 1.8. The operational range extends to about 3,700 km, and with additional fuel tanks and in-flight refuelling, the aircraft can undertake long-range combat missions. The operational ceiling exceeds 15,000 metres.
One of the Rafale's strengths is its advanced avionics and electronic warfare systems. The fighter utilises the AESA RBE2 radar, providing high efficiency in detecting and tracking targets in all weather conditions. A key component is also the SPECTRA self-defence system, which detects and disrupts enemy radar signals, increasing survival chances in battle.
The Rafale can carry Meteor air-to-air missiles with a range of over 150 km, as well as medium-range MICA missiles, available in radar-guided and infrared-guided variants. In close combat, it uses Magic II missiles. For ground target attacks, the aircraft is capable of deploying SCALP-EG cruise missiles, AASM Hammer guided bombs, and standard laser-guided bombs such as the GBU-12 and GBU-24 Paveway. The Rafale can also combat ships using Exocet anti-ship missiles and is equipped with a GIAT 30M791 30 mm cannon.
