This article summarizes reporting by Reuters and journalists Sabine Siebold and Mike Stone.

Report: Germany Weighs Additional F-35 Order as European Fighter Program Stalls

Germany is reportedly in early-stage negotiations to acquire a second tranche of U.S.-made F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, a move that could signal a significant pivot in the nation’s long-term defense strategy. According to exclusive reporting by Reuters on February 19, 2026, sources familiar with the matter indicate that Berlin is considering the purchase of more than 35 additional jets as a hedge against the faltering Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program.

The potential acquisition comes at a critical moment for European defense cooperation. While the German government has officially denied the existence of concrete plans, the reports suggest growing frustration in Berlin regarding the progress of the joint Franco-German-Spanish FCAS initiative. If confirmed, a new order would deepen the Luftwaffe’s integration with U.S. military technology and potentially undermine France’s vision for European strategic autonomy.

Potential Expansion of the F-35 Fleet

According to the Reuters report, two sources confirmed that Germany is exploring an order that would match or exceed its initial purchase of 35 F-35A Military-Aircraft. In 2022, Berlin signed a contract valued at approximately $10 billion for its first fleet of Lightning IIs, which are intended to replace the aging Tornado fleet for NATO nuclear sharing missions. Those initial jets are scheduled for Delivery starting in 2026, with arrival in Germany expected by 2027.

The sources cited by Reuters suggest that the cost of the additional jets would likely exceed $80 million per airframe. This Investment would represent a multi-billion dollar commitment to American hardware at a time when European leaders have been pushing to bolster their own industrial base.

Official Denials

Despite the claims from insider sources, German officials have publicly rejected the notion of a new procurement deal. A government spokesperson stated there are “no plans” for a further order, and the Ministry of Defense echoed this, asserting that no political decisions have been made. Lockheed Martin, the Manufacturers of the F-35, declined to comment to Reuters, noting only their focus on delivering the aircraft currently under Contracts.

The FCAS Crisis

The primary driver behind this reported strategic shift appears to be the deadlock facing the Future Combat Air System (FCAS). Launched in 2017, FCAS was designed to produce a next-generation fighter to replace French Rafales and German Eurofighters by 2040. However, the program has been plagued by industrial infighting between Dassault Aviation and Airbus, as well as deep strategic divergences between Paris and Berlin.

According to reporting by Reuters, the specific operational requirements of the two nations have become a major sticking point. France requires a carrier-capable aircraft that can support its independent nuclear deterrent, while Germany needs a land-based interceptor focused on NATO interoperability.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz recently highlighted these incompatibilities publicly. Regarding the divergent needs of the two nations, Merz warned:

“If we cannot resolve this, we will not be able to continue.”

, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (via Reuters)

AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Implications

If Germany proceeds with a second F-35 buy, it would likely be interpreted as a vote of no confidence in the FCAS timeline. The F-35 is currently the only aircraft certified to carry the B61-12 nuclear gravity bombs required for Germany’s NATO obligations. Doubling the fleet would secure Germany’s air power capabilities well into the 2060s, reducing the urgency, and perhaps the viability, of the European alternative.

From an industrial perspective, this move could destabilize the Franco-German defense axis. France has historically viewed the FCAS program not just as a procurement project, but as a pillar of European sovereignty. A German pivot toward off-the-shelf American jets would likely strain relations with Paris and could trigger retaliatory shifts in other joint programs, such as the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) tank project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of Germany’s F-35 program?
Germany ordered 35 F-35A jets in 2022 to replace its Tornado fleet. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2026.

Why is the FCAS program delayed?
The program faces disputes over workshare between manufacturers (Dassault and Airbus) and conflicting operational requirements. France needs a carrier-based nuclear jet, while Germany requires a land-based aircraft.

Has Germany officially confirmed the new order?
No. The German government and Ministry of Defense have explicitly denied plans for a new order, stating no decision has been made.

Sources

• Reuters