F-35 maker turns to surprising European country for help with next-gen stealth fighter

Lockheed Martin, the American multinational company specialized in the aerospace and defense industry, is the global manufacturer and developer of the F-35 fighter jets.

A few days ago, the company’s executives reached a strategic agreement with the Portuguese AED Cluster, a group from the aerospace, space, and defense sectors. Both parties signed a memorandum of understanding to involve Portuguese companies in production, research, development, maintenance, and training efforts related to the stealth fighter of the future.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Portugal, this is a key agreement that opens up “incredible opportunities” for companies from the neighboring country to contribute to high-tech programs. In this way, Lockheed Martin has taken another step toward building alliances with countries that operate—or may soon operate—combat aircraft of this class.

Currently, the F-35 is one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world. It is a fifth-generation aircraft that requires constant software updates and maintenance under U.S. control. With stealth capabilities, it is designed for ground attack, reconnaissance, and air defense missions.

As for Portugal, the government has reconsidered its planned purchase of F-35s, despite the acquisition being announced last year. Defense Minister Nuno Melo stated that the government is evaluating “better options” to replace its current fighter jets, the F-16s.

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