Danish regrets over F‑35 purchase spark European shift
Former Danish Minister of Economy and current Chairman of the Parliamentary Defense Committee, Rasmus Jarlov, expressed regret over purchasing F-35 fighter jets, as reported by The EurAsian Times. Jarlov emphasized concerns that the U.S. could block spare parts' delivery, which threatens Denmark's security. He also fears the U.S. might use this position to pressure its allies.
"I don’t know if there is an emergency switch in the F-35 or not. Obviously, we can't take the U.S. [editor's note] at their word. As one of the decision-makers behind Denmark's purchase of the F-35, I regret it," Jarlov wrote on platform X. "The U.S. could certainly immobilize the aircraft simply by halting spare parts deliveries. They want to strengthen Russia and weaken Europe, and they demonstrate that they are ready to inflict enormous harm on peaceful and loyal allies such as Canada, just because they insist on existing as a country," he added.
Denmark looks closely at American weaponry
Jarlov also highlighted a theoretical scenario where the U.S. might demand Greenland from Denmark, threatening to deactivate American weapons. "That's why buying American weapons is a security risk we cannot take. In the coming years, we will make massive investments in air defense, fighter jets, artillery, and other weapons, and we must avoid American weapons if at all possible," he explained. "I encourage our allies and friends to do the same," he concluded.
Denmark and other countries are closely scrutinizing offers for American F-35 fighter jets. Canada, which has ordered 88 of these aircraft, is considering alternative solutions due to geopolitical tensions and concerns about U.S. reliability. Portugal has taken similar steps, opting for European fighters over the F-35. Available information indicates that the Swedish Saab Gripen and French Rafale, which offer greater autonomy and independence from American systems, might be within their area of interest.
In Germany, concerns about American fighters are also growing. Military experts are warning about the possibility of the U.S. blocking access to aircraft software, which could potentially ground the aircraft. Although Lockheed Martin denies the existence of such a "switch", dependence on American systems still raises significant concern.
Alternatives to F-35
Amid growing concerns over U.S. reliability, European countries are increasingly considering purchasing European fighter jets. Among the options being considered are the aforementioned Swedish Saab Gripen and French Rafale. The latest version of the Saab Gripen, the E/F, is designed for technological and economic superiority. Its design focuses on low operational costs and operational flexibility. Equipped with the General Electric F414G engine, the fighter reaches speeds over Mach 2, and its advanced AESA Raven ES-05 radar ensures effective target detection and tracking in all conditions.
The Gripen's electronics are among its greatest advantages. The Skyward-G EW system and modern interfaces enable integration with a wide range of armaments. The aircraft can carry Meteor air-to-air missiles with a range of over 62 miles, IRIS-T and AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, and the GBU-39 SDB guided bomb. Moreover, with its low radar signature and advanced electronic warfare system, the Gripen poses a challenging target for enemy air defense systems.
The French Dassault Rafale, on the other hand, has proven its effectiveness on the battlefield for years. Designed as a 4.5 generation aircraft, it is capable of performing tasks as both an air superiority fighter and a strike aircraft. Powered by two Snecma M88-2 engines, it reaches speeds of up to Mach 1.8 and is characterized by excellent maneuverability. The Rafale F4 version introduces additional improvements in sensor systems, communication, and armaments.
The AESA RBE2 radar ensures effective target detection in difficult conditions, and the advanced SPECTRA self-defense system significantly increases the aircraft's survivability. Rafale can carry a wide range of armaments—MICA, Meteor, and Magic II air-to-air missiles—as well as SCALP-EG cruise missiles and AASM Hammer bombs. Notably, the Rafale can carry ASMP-A nuclear missiles, making it a strategic asset for France.
