Portugal is reportedly shifting its defense procurement strategy from the U.S.-made F-35 to France’s Rafale jets, driven by concerns over delivery delays and stringent American controls. This move underscores a growing European trend towards prioritizing indigenous defense capabilities and technology transfer, as seen in recent deals involving the Rafale in Greece and Croatia. France’s emphasis on a sovereign defense policy, championed by President Macron, gains traction in light of NATO’s supply chain vulnerabilities. The potential deal, which could significantly enhance Portugal’s air capabilities while bolstering the French economy, reflects a broader reevaluation of defense partnerships in Europe, signaling a pivotal moment for the continent’s air power landscape amid evolving geopolitical threats.