Berlin: Germany is preparing to order an additional 15 F-35 fighter jets from U.S. defense manufacturer Lockheed Martin, according to parliamentary sources cited by Reuters. The deal, reported by Spiegel magazine, is expected to cost around €2.5 billion, based on confidential documents submitted to the German parliament’s budget committee.

This new acquisition would expand Germany's F-35 fleet to 50 aircraft, gradually replacing its aging fleet of 85 Tornado jets. The Tornado jets currently play a key role in carrying U.S. nuclear bombs stored in Germany during times of conflict.

The decision follows Germany’s earlier denial in July of any plans to acquire additional F-35s. A recently expanded defense budget has provided the government with more flexibility for military procurement, allowing for the proposed purchase.

The move may createfriction with France, which has had disagreements with Germany over the joint Future Combat Air System (FCAS) fighter jet program. The additional F-35s reflect Germany’s commitment to modernizing its air force while strengthening its defense capabilities in line with NATO obligations.