Spain’s decision reportedly reflects a broader EU militarization drive aimed at defense sovereignty and reduced reliance on US weapons Spain has shelved plans to buy US-made F-35 stealth jets. The move is tied to EU defense spending rules and concerns over reliance on American weapons, El Pais has reported, citing government sources. Preliminary talks had already begun over the fifth-generation fighter – built by aerospace giant Lockheed Martin – and Spain’s 2023 defense budget earmarked over €