F-35: Pentagon Denies “Kill Switch” Fears

WASHINGTON — Amid rising tensions, the Pentagon is assuring international partners that the F-35 fighter jet doesn’t have a “kill switch” controlled by the U.S.

The F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) released a statement emphasizing that “there is no kill switch,” and that existing agreements ensure all operators can effectively sustain and operate their aircraft. The JPO highlighted the program’s strength lies in its global partnership and commitment to providing full functionality and support to all users.

Concerns about a potential kill switch arose after reports suggested some allies were re-evaluating their fighter jet needs. While officials initially dismissed the kill switch idea, worries persist about the F-35’s reliance on U.S. software updates and logistical support. Stacie Pettyjohn from the Center for a New American Security noted that while the U.S. can’t remotely control the F-35, cutting off maintenance, spare parts, and network access would severely hinder the aircraft’s capabilities.

Recent reports indicate that Portugal and Canada are reassessing their future fighter jet options. Canada, despite a contract for 16 F-35As, is evaluating whether purchasing additional jets aligns with their best interests amid ongoing trade tensions with the U.S. Laurent de Casanove, press secretary for Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair, stated that they are not cancelling the F-35 contract, but are doing their “homework” to ensure the contract serves Canadian interests.

The JPO reiterated the F-35’s collaborative nature, emphasizing its development and operation as a joint platform with strong partnerships among allies. Lockheed Martin affirmed its commitment to supporting customers with the F-35, highlighting the program’s recent milestone of surpassing 1 million flight hours.

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