The government of Portugal has officially announced its decision to participate as an observer in one of the two European programs aimed at developing sixth-generation fighter jets. This initiative is part of the Portuguese Air Force’s (FAP) modernization plans, which foresee the replacement of its current fleet of F-16M Fighting Falcon fighters.
Defense Minister João Nuno Lacerda Teixeira de Melo stated that participating as an observer will not involve any costs for the country. “We will not spend a single euro to participate as observers in one of the sixth-generation fighter development projects,” the official assured. In that capacity, Portugal will gain early access to technical and doctrinal developments without committing financial resources or industrial contributions.
Currently, Europe is promoting two parallel programs to develop advanced air capabilities:
- The Future Combat Air System (FCAS), led by France, Germany, and Spain, with companies such as Dassault Aviation, Airbus, and Indra participating. The system includes a manned fighter jet, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), and a digital combat cloud. Entry into service is expected around 2040.
- The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), led by the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan, merges the British Tempest program with Japan’s F-X. Major contractors include BAE Systems, Leonardo, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Rolls-Royce, and MBDA. GCAP aims to achieve operational capability by 2035.
Although it has not yet been confirmed which of the two projects Portugal will ultimately select, defense sources indicate a leaning toward GCAP, due to existing industrial ties with the United Kingdom and Italy.
The decision to join one of these programs as an observer comes in the context of a review of the national air strategy. The FAP has begun a process of upgrading its F-16M fleet to the S3.25 standard and foresees the acquisition of a fifth-generation platform as part of the Air Power Transformation Plan 2024–2030, also known as Força Aérea 5.3.
In that context, the possibility of acquiring the U.S.-made F-35A Lightning II had been considered by Portuguese authorities. However, recent statements by Minister Melo suggest that this option is currently being reconsidered. In an interview with local outlet Público, the minister expressed concerns about the predictability of U.S. foreign policy, particularly its commitment to European defense within NATO.
According to the minister, the current geopolitical environment could create future obstacles regarding the purchase of updates, spare parts, and services needed to maintain the F-35, due to Washington’s control over those processes. The U.S. administration has repeatedly expressed its intention to reduce spending related to European defense, encouraging greater investment from its continental allies.
In conclusion, Portugal’s potential participation as an observer in the European programs does not yet represent a definitive decision regarding its future fighter aircraft. However, it positions the country at an early stage in the development of these platforms, aiming to ensure long-term strategic capabilities.
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