Summary
European nations refute claims that the U.S. has a “kill switch” for F-35 fighter jets, despite concerns raised after Trump suspended military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine.
While no evidence confirms such a switch, experts warn the U.S. could limit access to crucial software updates.
Belgium and Switzerland assert their F-35s remain autonomous but acknowledge reliance on U.S. data systems.
Set to receive 35 F-35s in 2026, some German politicians are questioning whether the purchase should have been made amid these concerns.
The Germans wanted that, but the US told them that their nukes stationed in Europe will only be allowed to be loaded onto a US-made jet.
So in order to not lose a large part of the current nuclear deterrent, and to not strain relations with the US, one of Germany’s closest allies, they agreed to buy the F-35.