Portugal is looking to join one of the sixth-generation fighter jet development programs. This is part of the country's broader effort to replace its fleet of aging F-16AM/BM aircraft, which could later be transferred to Ukraine as part of military aid.
Portugal's Minister of National Defense João Nuno Lacerda Teixeira de Melo stated that the country plans to join one of the European programs as an observer, Janes reports. The choice is between the Global Combat Air Program (with Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom) and Future Combat Air System (with Germany, Spain, and France).
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However, it's not yet clear which direction Portugal will choose. Considering the difficulties Belgium faced trying to join FCAS, it's likely that GCAP will be the preferred option, especially as it already has set a timeline for the first flight.
Since a sixth-generation fighter remains a long-term project, Portugal is currently focused on the initial stage of F-16 replacement in the 2024–2030 timeframe. The country is choosing between the F-35 and JAS-39 Gripen.
It's important to note that this process has been ongoing for several years, and as of early 2025, no formal assessment of the options had even been conducted. In other words, it's unclear when a final contract might be signed.
Given the current production timelines for modern fighter jets, it could take several more years from contract signing to first deliveries. So if Portugal does decide to send F-16s to Ukraine, it won't happen soon.
On the other hand, Portugal has previously sold its fighter jets to Romania. Therefore, with a signed agreement, it's theoretically possible for Ukraine to receive additional jets sooner.
Overall, the Ukrainian Air Force is expected to receive more F-16s from Belgium and the Netherlands in the coming years, so the total number won't be critically low. Still, additional aircraft would help ease maintenance and support operations.
Portugal is already a member of the Fighter Jet Coalition for supplying these aircraft and training Ukrainian pilots. This makes direct transfers more feasible if replacement fighters are secured.
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