Portugal snubs F‑35 jets over US policy concerns, eyes Rafale
In an interview with the Portuguese news agency Público, Portugal's Defense Minister Nuno Melo announced his decision against procuring fifth-generation F-35 fighters. This choice is influenced by the current policies of the Donald Trump administration and concerns over potential restrictions by the U.S. government on software updates and spare parts essential for the complete operation of the F-35.
Melo emphasized the importance of considering the geopolitical landscape in decision-making, noting that the United States' recent position within NATO necessitates reevaluating the best course of action, as the reliability of allies should be a key factor.
Portugal does not want F-35 fighters
He pointed out that the world has already shifted, emphasizing the impact of the recent U.S. elections. He stressed the importance of considering the perspectives of the Secretary of Defense and the President on NATO and global affairs, particularly in Europe and for Portugal. He also cautioned that a historically reliable ally may now introduce usage, maintenance, components, and overall operational capabilities restrictions.
It's worth noting that Portugal initially planned to purchase fifth-generation F-35 fighters and allocate 5.5 billion euros for this purpose. However, the acquisition agreement remains unsigned. These new aircraft were intended to replace the 28 F-16AM/BM fighters currently used by the Portuguese Air Force, which have been upgraded through the MLU (Midlife Upgrade) program.
The Portuguese defense minister highlighted that despite the nearing end of the service life of its F-16s, Portugal is exploring other options that offer more predictability and operational security. Among the alternatives considered are European fighters, including the French Rafale.
One alternative Portugal may consider is the French Dassault Rafale multirole fighter, classified as a 4.5 generation aircraft. The Rafale can intercept air targets and effectively attack ground and naval units. The French opted for a delta-canard design, which gives the fighter excellent maneuverability, high aerodynamic stability, and the capacity to operate at high angles of attack. The fuselage is primarily made of composites, reducing the aircraft's weight and radar signature.
The Rafale comes in three variants: the single-seat C version for air forces, the two-seat B version, and the carrier-based M version for aircraft carrier operations. The French fighter is powered by two Snecma M88 engines. The Rafale can reach a maximum speed of around 1,188 mph, which corresponds to Mach 1.8. Its operational range extends to about 2,299 miles, and with additional fuel tanks and in-flight refueling, it can undertake long-range combat missions. The operational ceiling exceeds 49,213 feet.
One of the Rafale's strengths is its advanced avionics and electronic warfare systems. It utilizes the AESA RBE2 radar, ensuring high efficiency in detecting and tracking targets under all weather conditions. A critical component is the SPECTRA self-defense system, which detects and disrupts enemy radar signals, enhancing survival odds in battle.
The Rafale can carry Meteor air-to-air missiles with a range over 93 miles and medium-range MICA missiles available in both radar-guided and infrared-guided variants. For close combat, it uses Magic II missiles. For ground attacks, the aircraft can deploy SCALP-EG cruise missiles, AASM Hammer guided bombs, and standard laser-guided bombs like the GBU-12 and GBU-24 Paveway. The Rafale can also target ships using Exocet anti-ship missiles and features a GIAT 30M791 30 mm cannon.
