European leaders are reassessing their dependence on American defense systems due to growing tensions with the Trump administration. French President Emmanuel Macron has urged EU nations to invest in European alternatives, promoting the Franco-Italian SAMP/T missile defense system and Dassault’s Rafale over the US-made Patriot and F-35. Despite this push for defense autonomy, US arms exports remain dominant, with European NATO members still having nearly 500 combat aircraft on order from the US, according to SIPRI. Retired Air Marshal Greg Bagwell pointed out that no viable European alternative exists for fifth-generation stealth fighters, reinforcing American dominance in the sector. The debate underscores Europe’s challenge in balancing military self-sufficiency while maintaining access to US technology and capabilities.
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