From Neutral To Nuclear-Capable Host: What This F-35 Buy Means For European Air Power In 2026

The F-35 is taking its place as one of the most numerous and capable frontline fighter jets in Europe. As of May 2026, there are around 200 F-35As and F-35Bs in service across the continent, with hundreds more expected to arrive over the next ten years. In various air forces, the F-35 is replacing aging Harrier jump jets, legacy F/A-18 Hornets, F-16 Fighting Falcons, and Panavia Tornados. It is complementing the continent’s Eurofighter Typhoons (in the UK, Germany, Italy) and F-16s (in Poland and Romania).