By Matt Underwood Spain’s decision to forgo the F-35, choosing instead to either upgrade its existing Eurofighter fleet or invest in the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), marks a significant shift in its defense strategy. This choice is more than just a procurement decision; it’s a statement about Spain’s priorities and its view of the current geopolitical landscape.
Given Spain already operates the Eurofighter, it’s logical to anticipate further investment in this platform. Upgrading the Eurofighters to extend their operational lifespan is a pragmatic move, providing a reliable and familiar air defense capability while the FCAS project matures. It’s a way to maintain a relevant air force without the immediate financial and political commitments associated with acquiring a new, potentially contentious, aircraft.
However, the FCAS program itself is a complex undertaking, currently facing potential challenges due to the internal political disagreements between France and Germany, its primary developers. The success of FCAS hinges on these nations overcoming their internal conflicts. Its actual deployment is still years away.
The alternative, though, would have been the F-35B. However, this option has been taken off the table. For Spain, the F-35B would have been useful for its aircraft carrier, and this is a significant consideration. The F-35B is a cutting-edge 5th generation fighter, a plane some would describe as “amazing”, but there are concerns about the terms of its purchase and use. The reliability of the USA as a supplier is also up for question, with other partner nations experiencing issues with the plane. The idea of relying on a country that might be “hostile” or unpredictable is less palatable than it once was, which led to this decision. The option to upgrade the Eurofighter has other positive benefits: the country gets an updated air force, which may be cheaper to operate than a 5th generation plane.
It’s clear that Spain has considered its military ambitions, and concluded that for now, the 4th generation Eurofighter is sufficient. The alternative would have been to make huge leaps ahead, in contrast to other nations that are developing 5th and 6th generation fighters. The reliance on 4th generation fighters until the 2040s, assuming FCAS is ready by then, suggests a deliberate choice. Modern warfare is evolving rapidly, with combat distances increasing.
The current global climate is a significant factor. Buying the F-35 from the USA might have meant entering into an agreement with a country that is currently perceived as unreliable. The idea of buying a plane from a nation that might use it as a bargaining tool or impose restrictions is a definite deterrent. The alternative is to build military independence within the EU, and not to rely on foreign nations. There’s also the issue of the F-35’s “kill switch,” raising questions about national sovereignty and control over its assets.
The economic realities also play a role. Spain’s defense budget is modest, and the country faces other economic challenges. The FCAS program offers a collaborative approach, sharing costs and expertise with other European nations. This, in turn, is a way to cut costs.
Looking at the bigger picture, Spain’s decision reflects a broader trend. Many countries are reassessing their relationships with the US, seeking greater autonomy in their defense procurement decisions. The political climate in the US is creating uncertainty. Ultimately, Spain is prioritizing its own security and national interests, even if it means sticking with a 4th-generation fighter for now.