Portuguese Air Force internal study ranks F-35 above European fighters (eco.sapo.pt)

• Portuguese Air Force prefers F-35A in internal ranking
• Competitors: Gripen E, Eurofighter Typhoon, Rafale
• €3-5 billion contract for 14-28 jets, decision pending

"An internal Portuguese Air Force study evaluating 20 technical criteria places the US-made Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II as the preferred option to replace the F-16 fleet, ahead of the Swedish Gripen E, the Eurofighter Typhoon, and the French Rafale. The contract for 14 to 28 jets is valued between €3 billion and €5 billion. The report remains confidential and has not yet been submitted to political decision-makers."