Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:13:26-1:14:03

Could France buy F-35Cs for PANG?

A French F-35C purchase is considered unlikely despite the aircraft's potential interest for PANG.

F-35 Lightning IIFrench NavyNaval AviationPA-NGStrategic Autonomy
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Question

Will France buy F-35s as additional aircraft for PANG?

Short answer

An F-35C addition would be interesting, but a purchase is considered unlikely because national status and strategic autonomy are central reasons for the carrier.

Notes

The F-35C is considered an interesting possible addition to PANG's air group, but a French purchase is judged unlikely. National pride and status are part of the justification for the carrier. France also has overseas departments and commitments spread around the world that help explain its need for carrier aviation. Strategic autonomy provides another reason to favour an independent capability.