Originally Posted By: Jetronic
Our military is looking to replace the F-16 soon. The SAAB is a contender, as is the Eurofigher, Rafale and the Super Hornet. But I think the F-35 will be acquired only because the perceived need to carry US made and owned B61 nuclear bombs. But if US participation in NATO isn't guaranteed in the near future, what use it that capability?
Forgive me I don't know what country you are in but I understand your concerns. I don't think though that the F-35 purchase is tied directly to the B-61. The F-16 and F-18 are cleared to carry the weapon as are a number of legacy aircraft. The F-35 is a tactical vehicle as are the aircraft it is seen replacing. The B-61 is seen by anti-nuclear activists as destabilizing for that reason (lower yield, more carriers makes for easier use in their minds). As to the viability of NATO, I don't worry too much about it, the common concerns are real, and it's too early to speculate on any changes.
My personal view is that the Europeans have gotten a little too comfortable with the status quo funding in a time of Crimean takeover, Ukrinian invasion and intimidation of the Nordic and Baltic states. Spending around 2% of GDP in many cases does seem careless and somewhat free-riding. There is very little doubt in my mind that, left to their own comfort, it would go on down to 1% or less as long as the US would guarantee their security. For that reason alone it is time to give them a wakeup call.
Not to put too fine a point on it and not to give offense but - Much of the social-democratic "good life" in Europe has been and is funded by not spending the 4-5% or more that would be required to maintain a proper defense without the US. Whenever Europeans mock the US about infrastructure or social services that don't equal their own I know they don't have an appreciation for how they pay for their social welfare state at least in major part.
Sorry if this seems to veer off topic but the areas are highly related as to NATO commitment and funding with regard to possible Gripen versus other types purchase and the carriage of B-61 that you raise.
