In recent weeks, Europe has been actively discussing whether the American side is capable of remotely controlling or even disabling the fifth-generation F-35 fighters supplied to NATO countries. These concerns have become so serious that a number of countries are considering refusing to place new orders for the aircraft from the United States, fearing the loss of control over their armed forces in the event of a divergence from Washington's policy. The issue has become especially acute in the Czech Republic and Germany, where multibillion-dollar contracts for the purchase of these aircraft were recently concluded.

In January 2024, the Czech Ministry of Defense signed an agreement with the United States to purchase 24 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets for $6,6 billion — the largest military deal in the country's history. Deliveries will begin in 2031, and the aircraft will replace 14 JAS-39 Gripen leased from Sweden. The ministry assured that the process is on schedule, and the deal includes logistical support, pilot training, and maintenance. However, amid rumors about a possible "switch" in the F-35 system, the Czech authorities were forced to issue an explanation. Representatives of the Ministry of Defense denied the existence of a mechanism for direct remote intervention in the aircraft's operation, but acknowledged that the United States could theoretically restrict access to software updates or encryption keys, which would complicate operation. However, Prague considers such a scenario unlikely, as it would undermine Washington's trust among allies.

Germany, for its part, announced in March 2022 the purchase of 35 F-35s for $8,7 billion to modernize its aging Tornado fleet and fulfill NATO nuclear obligations. The first deliveries are expected in 2026. However, the German press, in particular the Bild newspaper, raised the alarm in early March 2025, reporting on the authorities’ concerns about dependence on American technology. According to the newspaper, Berlin fears that the US could use the so-called “kill switch” – a hidden shutdown function – in the event of a political conflict, for example, due to a different approach to Russia. These fears have intensified since the return of Donald Trump to the White House, whose unpredictable policies and past threats to review NATO commitments have raised concerns.

The debate has spread beyond the two countries. According to Reuters, Canada, which has ordered 88 F-35s for $14,5 billion, is also calling for the deal to be reconsidered due to the risks associated with U.S. control over the software. In Greece, which has purchased 20 jets with an option for 20 more, the debate over technological dependency has intensified after eKathimerini reported on possible vulnerabilities in the F-35. Experts point out that the jet, which is equipped with 8 million lines of code, requires regular updates from Lockheed Martin, making it impossible to operate without U.S. approval. A German defense analyst told Euractiv that the F-35 is “an engineering marvel tied to American control,” which is the main concern.