Germany Orders 15 More Fighter Jets Amid Tensions With France

Germany is moving to buy 15 more F-35 fighter jets from the United States. This will raise its total order to 50 jets.

The decision follows mounting tensions with France over the delayed European fighter jet programme.

According to Politico, the German Defence Ministry has not made an official announcement.

Joint press conference by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany.

However, military insiders say the decision is already in motion. Germany appears to be shifting its defense strategy amid NATO’s updated security requirements.

Previously, Berlin had committed to purchasing 35 F-35s. These were meant to replace its ageing Tornado fleet.

But after NATO revised its weapons and troop targets, German officials are reassessing their initial plans. As a result, they now consider adding more jets to meet alliance expectations.

Meanwhile, Berlin’s long-term plan with France and Spain, known as the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), is in trouble. For years, the project has suffered delays.

Disputes over intellectual property and workload sharing have deepened the divide. Recently, France demanded 80% of the workload. That demand has sparked outrage in Berlin.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged that talks have stalled. Leaders are now divided over core design choices.

Due to this impasse, experts warn that the FCAS programme may collapse entirely. Unless both sides compromise soon, the next project phase will likely miss its deadline.

Therefore, Germany is taking a more practical path. The F-35 is already in use by several NATO members. It is fast, stealthy, and battle-ready. Investing in it now gives Berlin a reliable alternative.

Germany’s shift could also reflect frustration. While the idea of a European jet sounded promising, the execution has failed. Consequently, Berlin is hedging its bets by relying on tested American technology.

Although France may try to revive the FCAS talks, Germany appears focused on what works now. Until both countries align, the future of their joint fighter jet remains uncertain.

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