Germany is not giving up its $8.4 billion purchase of F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, despite high inflation

Inflation in Germany reached double digits in September due to rising energy prices. This has raised doubts as to whether Berlin will be able to buy American F-35 Lightning II planes. But according to the latest official statements, the deal will happen.

Here's What We Know

Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz, chief of staff of the German Air Force, told reporters on his way from Ämari Air Base to Berlin that the purchase of fifth-generation fighters is Germany's biggest and most important defense contract. The sale of the F-35A Lightning II was approved by the U.S. State Department in mid-summer 2022. The contract was worth $8.4 billion, which includes 35 aircraft, ammunition and additional equipment.

Gerhartz argued that purchasing power should not be affected by the rising rate of inflation. However, he noted that the final approval of the contract is with Germany's procurement agency, not directly with its military department. In addition, the lieutenant general did not rule out that inflation would affect purchases under other programs.

Germany has until the end of 2022 to sign a contract with Lockheed Martin, and deliveries of F-35A Lightning II fighter jets will continue until 2028. At the same time, by 2030 the Bundeswehr intends to withdraw PA-200 Tornado planes by Panavia Aircraft GmbH.

Germany is now concerned that its fighter fleet will shrink by about 40 aircraft. Berlin will give up 93 Tornado units, and in their place will be taken by 15 Eurofighter Typhoons in addition to the F-35 Lightning II. Ingo Gerhartz states that Germany needs to have about 200 fighters. Part of the shortage can be solved by the fighters of the sixth generation, but they will have to wait another 20 years.

Source: Defense News

Images: The Eurasian Times, War is Boring