Portugal plans F-16 replacement with single fighter fleet, three bidders interested (eco.sapo.pt)

• No formal tender for F-16 replacement opened yet.
• Three bidders: Lockheed Martin, Saab, Eurofighter.
• Minister Melo hints at excluding US option.

"The Portuguese government has not yet opened the official procurement process for new fighter jets to replace its aging F-16s. Three contenders are in the race: US-based Lockheed Martin, Swedish Saab, and the Eurofighter consortium. Defense Minister Nuno Melo initially appeared to rule out the US incumbent, citing cost and interoperability reasons."