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Portugal reconsiders US F-35 fighter jets against European alternatives for $5 billion F-16 replacement

Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel confirmed in Lisbon that the government is seriously evaluating the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II alongside the Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale, and Saab Gripen E to replace its fleet of 28 upgraded F-16M fighters. Speaking alongside U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Rangel noted that the multibillion-euro modernization program remains open to competitive proposals. The upcoming Military Programming Law will establish the formal procurement timeline and financial framework for the acquisition. Read full defense news at this link...

On October 8, 2026, Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel confirmed that Portugal is seriously considering the F-35 to replace its F-16 fleet, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio requested a fair opportunity to submit a competitive proposal. (Picture source: US DoD)



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