Newspaper: Department of Defense crisis meeting on F-35 fighter jets on Monday

The US manufacturer Lockheed Martin's stealth jet is considered the most modern combat aircraft in the world.

Newspaper: Department of Defense crisis meeting on F-35 fighter jets on Monday

The US manufacturer Lockheed Martin's stealth jet is considered the most modern combat aircraft in the world. Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) announced a few days ago that he wanted to close the order shortly. According to "BamS" it is about 35 machines including armament worth 9.99 billion euros.

According to the information, the budget committee is to release the procurement proposal on December 14th. However, the Ministry of Defense warns of risks. Among other things, it is unclear whether the Bundeswehr will get the airfield in Büchel converted in time for the F-35 jets by 2026. The security requirements of the USA are extremely complex. "Therefore, delays and additional costs before the start of flight operations cannot be ruled out," said Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht (SPD).

In addition, according to "BamS", the ministry does not want to guarantee that the fighter jets can be used in Germany as planned. There is a risk that national approval for flight operations may not be granted in a timely manner. "Flight operations could then only be started with restrictions," says the template.

In view of these concerns, SPD MP Andreas Schwarz (SPD) was outraged: "It is unacceptable that Parliament is only now learning about the problems," said the main rapporteur on the budget committee for the defense budget. "I expect comprehensive clarification from the ministry on how it wants to get the risks under control. Attempts are being made here to get rid of responsibility," said Schwarz of the "BamS".

The planned purchase of the F-35 jets is to be financed from the 100 billion euro special fund for the German armed forces. Scholz announced this after the Russian attack on Ukraine at the end of February.

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