German Defence Minister Lambrecht has announced plans to procure F-35 stealth fighters to replace the Luftwaffe’s old TORNADO Multi-Role Combat Aircraft Fleet. The decision has been in the pipeline for some time, but it is also understood as a response to the new threat environment resulting from the war in Ukraine. This acquisition effort is expected to be the first major procurement project after the Russian attack on Ukraine. Up to 35 aircraft from US manufacturer Lockheed Martin are planned, as Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht confirmed corresponding media reports in Berlin.
Lt Gen Ingo Gerhartz, Chief of the German Air Force said, “The F-35 is the most modern fighter aircraft in the world, and many of our European partners have also chosen this aircraft. It strengthens our ability to work with them to secure NATO air space and defend the Alliance. With the F-35, we are procuring a marketable 5th generation fighter aircraft”.
Observers assume that Germany will receive the most modern Block 4 version, which is also intended for Finland. While the F-18 SUPER HORNET would have to be specially certified to carry nuclear weapons for Germany, the US Armed Forces have already earmarked this role for the F-35.
As a statement from the US Department of Defense indicates, the certification process is to be completed in time for the nuclear sharing capability to be available to NATO partners from January 2024. For this reason, the so-called design certification date has been brought forward to January 2023. The test programme required for certification is intended to ensure that the F-35A can safely transport and deliver a B61-12 thermonuclear free-fall bomb to the target.
JH
