Germany is reportedly preparing for closed-door discussions regarding the reliability of US-made weapon systems, driven by concerns surrounding an alleged remote “kill switch” feature in certain combat aircraft. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is set to convene with military and defense procurement officials to reassess the US arms that Berlin has already ordered or is currently operating. The exact date and location for these discussions have not been disclosed.
The emergence of concerns about the possibility of Washington remotely disabling fighter jets can be traced back to President Donald Trump’s decision to halt military assistance to Ukraine. This decision has raised alarms among defense analysts, prompting them to advise countries like Canada to reconsider their intentions to purchase 88 F-35 jets, citing worries over the “degree of control” that the US may exert over future aircraft upgrades.
Carlo Masala, a defense analyst based in Munich, highlighted significant risks pertaining to the supply of essential spare parts for the F-35, labeling it a “potential vulnerability” for operators outside the US. He emphasized that the challenges associated with data transmission and the availability of spare parts could jeopardize the aircraft’s operational capabilities. “Without these, the F-35 could lose much of its functionality. If access is cut off, that’s a major problem,” Masala warned.
In light of these concerns, calls for reducing dependence on US defense systems have gained traction. Earlier this month, Airbus Defense and Space CEO Michael Schollhorn advocated for European nations, including Germany, to lessen their reliance on US-made military technologies. Germany has committed to purchasing dozens of F-35 jets from the US, with deliveries anticipated to commence in 2026.
Schollhorn underscored the importance of closer collaboration among European defense industries, arguing that instead of competing individually, these countries should adopt a coordinated approach. “We need not only an increase in defense spending at the national level but also a coordinated approach among key European countries,” he stated. He cautioned that if Europe continued to rely on off-the-shelf products from the US, even with increased defense budgets, it would further entrench its dependence on American military technology.
In response to the claims regarding the existence of a “kill switch,” the Pentagon has officially rejected these rumors, asserting that no such remote disabling mechanism is present in exported fighter jets.
