Portugal’s defence minister Nuno Melo has cast doubt over whether his country would order US fight jet F-35 to update its military capabilities, citing US President Donald Trump’s foreign policies.
In an interview with Portuguese media outlet Público published on March 13, 2025, when asked whether Portugal was to replace its F-16s with other US aircraft, the minister said the situation was somewhat different today.
“The world has already changed. There were elections in the US, there was a position regarding NATO and the world, expressed by the Secretary of Defence and by the US President himself, which must also be taken into account in Europe and with regard to Portugal,” he said.
“And this ally of ours, which has always been predictable over the decades, could bring limitations on use, maintenance, components and everything related to ensuring that the aircraft will be operational and used in all types of scenarios,” he added.
Melo’s remarks came amid concerns over European military sovereignty, with much European Union defence equipment having remained under US oversight, in the context of strained transatlantic relations.
As transatlantic relations have grown increasingly strained, concerns over European military sovereignty have been mounting. https://t.co/EdICPbqrIP
— Brussels Signal (@brusselssignal) March 12, 2025
During former US president Joe Biden’s term, Portugal had started the transition to F-35 jets in 2024.
“The F-16s are at the end of their lifecycle and we’ll have to consider replacing them. However, in our choices, we cannot remain oblivious to the geopolitical environment,” Melo said.
“The recent position of the United States, within NATO and on the international geostrategic level, must make us consider the best options because the predictability of our allies is a greater good to consider,” he added.
Although he said Portugal regarded the US as an ally, Melo argued that his country should still be cautious.
“The United States is a key ally of NATO, which has ensured peace in Europe since the end of the Second World War and which we Europeans have an obligation to preserve and value.
“This does not mean that we should not be aware of changes in the context, geopolitics, and the public statements made by various leaders, and make decisions based on these,” he said.
It was unclear if Portugal may turn instead to EU allies to update its fleet of jets.
When asked about Portugal potentially buying French-made aircraft, the Melo refused to comment.
