Denmark’s defense committee chairman, Rasmus Jarlov, has expressed regret over buying American-made F-35 fighter jets, citing concerns that the US may use these weapons as leverage against his country.
Jarlov fears that the US could disable the F-35s purchased by Denmark and its allies, potentially leaving them vulnerable to attack. He points to the example of Ukraine, which faced a similar dilemma when Washington temporarily paused military aid.
The Pentagon has denied claims of a “kill-switch” in the F-35, but Jarlov is skeptical. He warns that buying American weapons poses a security risk for Denmark and advises other countries to consider alternatives.
Jarlov’s comments come amid heightened tensions between the US and its allies over issues such as Trump’s proposed annexation of Greenland. The US has announced plans to send high-level officials to Greenland, which has sparked resistance from both Denmark and Greenland’s leaders.
Other countries are also reevaluating their reliance on US-made fighter jets due to these tensions. Portugal and Canada have expressed interest in exploring alternative options, while at least 19 governments have agreed to purchase the F-35.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/denmark-f35-regret-choosing-defense-committee-chairman-tensions-us-greenland-2025-3