Spain has scrapped its plans to purchase U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, according to Spanish newspaper El País. 

According to the report, preliminary talks to acquire the fifth-generation American stealth fighters have been suspended “indefinitely” to “prioritize investment in European industry.”

Instead, the government will explore European options such as the Eurofighter and the upcoming Future Combat Air System (FCAS).

As per reports, Spain’s Navy plans to retire its Harrier AV8B fighters by 2030 and had considered replacing them with the F-35B variant, known for its short take-off and vertical landing capabilities. It is currently operated by the United States and Italy. 

Spain’s Air Force also viewed the F-35A as a temporary replacement for its McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornets until FCAS becomes operational in 2040.

Lockheed Martin, in a statement to Breaking Defense, deferred to government authorities: “Foreign military sales are government-to-government transactions, and this matter is best addressed by the U.S. or Spanish government.”