The U.S. ambassador to Portugal is advocating for the country to acquire F-35 fighter aircraft to modernize its aging fleet and improve coordination with European allies. Ambassador John Arrigo emphasized the stealth capabilities would elevate Portugal's air force to elite status within the European Union.
The American diplomatic representative in Portugal is making a strong push for the European nation to modernize its military aircraft with advanced F-35 fighters, arguing the move would strengthen ties with premier European air forces.
In a recent interview with CNN Portugal, Ambassador John Arrigo advocated for replacing Portugal’s outdated F-16 aircraft with Lockheed Martin’s cutting-edge F-35 jets, emphasizing their stealth technology and compatibility benefits.
“F-35 is the best fighter – it’s a fifth-generation stealth fighter, it’ll get them (the Portuguese Air Force) into the Champions League when it comes to the EU,” Arrigo stated during the Sunday evening broadcast.
The ambassador also discussed his goals to leverage his commercial background to assist Portugal in increasing military expenditures to meet NATO’s 5% GDP target by 2035, up from the present 2% allocation.
Portugal’s Defense Minister Nuno Melo indicated in November that the country has not yet begun the selection process for new fighter aircraft.
Arrigo highlighted that over 900 F-35 aircraft are currently operational or ordered throughout Europe, stating that for “interoperability, the F-35 is definitely the way to go.” He also noted that European manufacturers contribute 25% of the aircraft’s components.
Regarding U.S.-China relations, the ambassador clarified that the Trump administration is not forcing Portugal to pick sides between Washington and Beijing or completely separate from Chinese partnerships. Instead, the U.S. is promoting a “de-risking” approach focused on cybersecurity protection and investment oversight.
Chinese investment in Portugal expanded significantly after the 2011-14 financial rescue package, when reduced asset values attracted international buyers.
The country received a 78 billion euro bailout in May 2011 from the European Union, International Monetary Fund, and European Central Bank after rising borrowing costs during the eurozone crisis blocked market access, requiring strict austerity measures that triggered a severe economic downturn.
Currently, China Three Gorges maintains a 21.4% stake in utility company EDP, China State Grid controls 25% of grid operator REN, and Hong Kong-based Fosun owns 20% of Millennium BCP bank and 85% of insurer Fidelidade.
The ambassador described the United States as Portugal’s “best partner but wants to keep any adversary… at arm’s length.”
Portugal became part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in December 2018. Arrigo suggested that Lisbon’s relationship with Washington would “flourish” if Portugal withdrew from the program, following Italy’s example in 2023.