Germany will receive its first ordered F-35 fighter jet on Friday, September 18 (27 Shahrivar). In the delivery ceremony, Boris Pistorius, the German defense minister, will symbolically receive this fighter jet. Pistorius, a politician from the German Social Democratic Party, expressed his happiness about this event, stating that with the arrival of this fighter jet, a "new era" for the German Air Force begins. He described the F-35 as the "most modern combat aircraft in the world."
Features of the F-35 Fighter Jet
The German defense minister highlighted the unique features of the F-35, stating that this fighter jet is distinguished by its stealth capabilities, extensive communication with other systems, and powerful sensors. Pistorius also emphasized that the F-35 has the ability to collect large volumes of data and can quickly synthesize this information to create a comprehensive picture of the operational situation. These features are particularly important in combat conditions and when facing potential threats.
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Germany's Role in NATO
One of the main objectives of purchasing these aircraft is Germany's participation in the NATO program known as "nuclear sharing." This program includes the deterrence strategy of the alliance, in which some allied countries participate in missions related to U.S. nuclear weapons. As a non-nuclear country, Germany aims to provide the necessary capabilities for NATO's nuclear deterrence with this purchase, without acquiring nuclear weapons itself.
Training for German pilots and technical personnel in the U.S. began this year. In the first phase, technical courses are being held for training these personnel, and flight training with the German fighter jets will begin in the last three months of the year in Arkansas. Six of these fighter jets are expected to be delivered to Germany by the end of this year. Additionally, the first eight F-35s for Germany will remain in the U.S. for training, and the last of the ordered fighter jets is scheduled to be delivered in 2029.
Future Developments at the German Air Base
The first F-35s will be stationed at the Büchel Air Base in the Eifel region of Germany by the end of next year. This military base is undergoing extensive renovations at a cost of two billion euros to accommodate the new fighter jets. Thus, Germany continues to strengthen its air capabilities with this program and plays its role in ensuring Europe's security as an important NATO member in the region.
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