Is it the Rafale or the American F-35 that holds superiority in the skies?
Portugal Leans Towards American F-35 Over European Rafale
Portugal could be ditching the French combat aircraft — the Rafale — in favor of American F-35s, according to information released by Zone militaire. The head of Portugal's Air Force (FAP), Cartaxo Alves, asserted that Portugal has no other option but to acquire the F-35s. Although these advanced aircraft originate from the U.S., they are assembled in Europe, with some European components.
The F-35s are fifth-generation aircraft, and countries worldwide covet them. Germany, for example, has purchased 80 (actually 35) due to a lack of viable alternatives. General Cartaxo Alves emphasized that the European aircraft, including the Rafale and Eurofighter, are not as advanced. He envisions a top European fighter in 20 years, but there's no substitute today.
Portugal's defense minister, Nuno Melo, previously stated that European alternatives should be considered to replace the F-16s, taking geopolitical context into account. NATO allies' predictability is crucial to reviewing which options are most beneficial.
Many European nations share Portugal's sentiment, opting for the American F-35. Germany, Belgium, and Denmark have made the same choice. While the Rafale doesn't require updates to maintain optimal performance, this advantage doesn't seem to be enough, as only Croatia and Greece have selected the French-designed aircraft.
Strategic, financial, and operational factors influence Europe's growing preference for the F-35. The aircraft's integration within NATO, the U.S.'s support, its advanced stealth technology, and long-term commitment are significant factors. Additionally, countries participating in the F-35 program appreciate its interoperability and ongoing upgrades, while the Rafale's market is somewhat limited due to its lack of stealth capabilities and strong competition from the F-35.
Labeling the F-35 as a priority, Portugal's Air Force head Cartaxo Alves sidelined the European Rafale, favoring American technology over its French counterpart. Despite the Rafale's factual maintenance autonomy, countries like Germany, Belgium, Denmark, and a few others have chosen the F-35, prioritizing its advanced stealth technology, powerful NATO integration, and ongoing upgrades—aspects seemingly missing in the Rafale.
