Lockheed Martin has signed a strategic agreement with a Portuguese industry group to explore opportunities for local participation in the F-35 program should Lisbon reverse its decision not to procure the American fighter jet.
Under the memorandum of understanding, AED Cluster Portugal, a private, non-profit organization representing more than 140 entities in the aerospace, space, and defense sectors, will help identify domestic companies interested in contributing to F-35 production, research, maintenance, and training.
The agreement positions AED as a key intermediary between Lockheed and potential Portuguese suppliers, laying the groundwork for future integration into the F-35 supply chain.
According to the US Embassy in Lisbon, the deal presents “incredible opportunities for Portuguese companies to contribute to high-tech programs and strengthen the national aerospace and defense ecosystem.”
Lisbon’s Hesitations
In November 2023, the Portuguese Air Force formally recommended procuring F‑35 fighter jets as part of its fleet modernization effort.
Chief of Staff General João Cartaxo Alves said the American aircraft was the only viable option to replace the country’s aging F-16 fleet.
However, Defense Minister Nuno Melo expressed reservations earlier this year, following Donald Trump’s reelection as US president and amid growing concerns over the reliability of American defense commitments.
“We cannot ignore the geopolitical environment in our choices. The recent position of the US, in the context of NATO … must make us think about the best options, because the predictability of our allies is a greater asset to take into account,” Melo said, as quoted by Politico.
One of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, the F-35 relies on constant software updates, diagnostics, and parts logistics that remain tightly controlled by the US.
This dependence could become a strategic vulnerability if future conflict or political shifts in Washington limit access to software, parts, or operational support.
Despite the uncertainties, Portugal’s defense ministry has not ruled out the F-35, keeping it under consideration alongside European-made alternatives.
