Swiss lawmakers demand cancellation of $9.1 billion F-35 order amid Trump tariffs

The F-35 stealth fighter, a cornerstone of U.S. military strategy, is increasingly caught in the crosshairs of geopolitical tensions as countries reassess their procurement plans amid trade disputes and shifting security priorities. President Donald Trump’s imposition of a 39% tariff on Swiss goods has triggered a strong reaction in Switzerland, where lawmakers are now demanding the cancellation of a $9.1 billion order for 36 F-35s from Lockheed Martin [1]. The tariff, seen as a direct challenge to Swiss trade interests, has reignited debates over the wisdom of purchasing a U.S.-made fighter jet in an increasingly unpredictable international environment [1].

The Swiss F-35 deal, originally valued at $6.25 billion in 2022, has already seen costs rise due to inflation and production challenges, creating friction between the two countries long before the tariff dispute emerged [1]. The timing of the tariff escalation is particularly sensitive, as it follows recent developments in other NATO countries that have also reconsidered their F-35 commitments. Spain, for example, has opted for a European alternative, favoring the Eurofighter or the Future Combat Air System developed jointly by France, Germany, and Spain [1]. This decision came amid Trump’s criticism of Spain for not meeting NATO’s defense spending targets [1].

Portugal and Canada, both NATO allies, have similarly expressed reservations about the F-35. Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo stated in March that the country is evaluating alternatives due to concerns about the predictability of U.S. security commitments [1]. Canada, which had signed a $13 billion deal for 88 F-35s in 2023, is also considering European options, despite having already committed funds for its first 16 planes [1]. Although recent reports indicate Canadian defense officials still favor acquiring all 88 F-35s, the government has not issued a formal recommendation [1].

While the F-35 faces growing scrutiny in some quarters, it continues to attract interest in other markets. The U.K., Belgium, and Denmark have all recently added to their F-35 orders [1]. These developments suggest that while the trade tensions are influencing procurement decisions, the F-35 remains a preferred option for many countries due to its advanced capabilities and proven performance in combat operations [1]. Analysts have noted that the F-35 delivers significant military capability in a relatively cost-effective manner compared to alternatives [1].

The F-35 program, which has faced persistent criticism for delays, cost overruns, and maintenance issues, remains a major component of Lockheed’s business, accounting for 25% of its sales this year according to JPMorgan [1]. The program is expected to continue as the backbone of the U.S. fighter fleet for decades, even as work begins on the next-generation F-47 stealth fighter [1].

The broader implications of the F-35’s position in the Trump-era trade landscape are still unfolding. As countries weigh military, economic, and political considerations, the jet’s future in key markets remains uncertain. The F-35 may be stealthy in combat, but in the realm of international trade and diplomacy, it is anything but hidden [1].

Source: [1] [America’s F-35 is stealthy in combat but lights up the radar in Trump’s trade war](https://fortune.com/2025/08/08/f35-stealth-fighter-trump-trade-war-switzerland-tariff-lockheed-spain-nato/)