Germany, Under Pistorius, Reevaluates U.S. Weapon Systems & F-35 Acquisition Over US Control Risks

Although the Pentagon denies any “kill switch” exists, analysts point out that the US retains critical control over data, software updates, and spare parts, effectively giving it significant influence over the aircraft's operational readiness.

by Großwald Editorial Team

Updated March 27, 2025

Großwald Curated: TL;DR

Germany is set to hold confidential talks led by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to reevaluate its reliance on US-made weapon systems—especially the F-35 fighter jets—amid fears of external control or limitations imposed by the US. Although the Pentagon denies any “kill switch” exists, analysts point out that the US retains critical control over data, software updates, and spare parts, effectively giving it significant influence over the aircraft's operational readiness.

These concerns are influencing other NATO countries like Canada, which is also considering a large F-35 purchase. European defense industry leaders, notably Airbus’s Michael Schollhorn, are advocating for reduced reliance on US systems and urging stronger intra-European defense collaboration. The central issue is not technical sabotage, but strategic dependency—prompting a larger conversation across Europe about autonomy, resilience, and long-term defense planning in an era of geopolitical uncertainty.

Germany to Evaluate US-Made Weapon Systems Amid Concerns

Germany is set to conduct confidential discussions led by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to evaluate the reliability and strategic implications of US-made weapon systems, particularly the F-35 fighter jets. This move comes amid growing concerns about potential external control mechanisms embedded in these systems. Although the Pentagon has denied the existence of any remote "kill switch," the focus remains on the US's control over critical components such as data, software updates, and spare parts, which could affect the operational readiness of the aircraft.

The discussions will involve military and defense procurement officials, reflecting Germany's intent to reassess its current and future reliance on US arms. The exact date and location of these meetings remain undisclosed. The impetus for this reevaluation stems from fears amplified during the Trump administration when military assistance to Ukraine was abruptly halted, raising questions about the extent of US control over exported military equipment.

Concerns Over Dependence on US Components

Defense analysts, including Carlo Masala from Munich, highlight that the real vulnerability lies in the dependence on the US for spare parts and data access, crucial for maintaining the F-35's functionality. Without these, the aircraft could lose significant operational capabilities. This concern is not isolated to Germany; Canada, planning to purchase 88 F-35 jets, is also wary of the degree of control the US might exert over future upgrades.

Calls for European Defense Autonomy

Michael Schollhorn, CEO of Airbus Defense and Space, has publicly urged European nations to reduce their reliance on US-made defense systems. He advocates for increased intra-European cooperation and coordinated defense spending strategies to foster the development of European-made defense technologies. Schollhorn warns that purchasing off-the-shelf US products with expanded defense budgets could entrench European dependence on the US, undermining strategic autonomy.

Strategic Implications for NATO Members

The broader issue at hand is not merely technical but strategic, as European nations grapple with the implications of dependency on a single supplier nation. This concern is prompting some NATO members to reconsider their procurement strategies, emphasizing the need for a balance between alliance obligations and sovereign control of military assets. The ongoing discussions reflect a growing recognition across Europe of the necessity for operational autonomy and strategic resilience through domestic or regional defense capabilities.

These developments occur against a backdrop of rising global tensions and uncertainties in US foreign policy leadership. The Trump administration's past decisions continue to influence allied trust in US reliability, underscoring the importance of diversification in defense suppliers within NATO and allied states. As European defense independence becomes a recurring theme in security conversations, there is an implied need for strategic resilience through enhanced domestic or regional defense capabilities.