Pentagon Denies Existence of Remote ‘Kill Switch’ in Exported F-35s

The Pentagon has strongly rejected claims that the US has installed a remote “kill switch” in exported F-35 fighter jets, dismissing fears that Washington could deactivate the aircraft at will. The speculation arose following former President Donald Trump’s announcement of halting military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, leading to concerns that similar measures could be applied to foreign-operated F-35s.

Canada, which has placed an order for 88 F-35s, is now facing calls to reconsider its purchase over concerns about the extent of US control over the aircraft. Some defense analysts have raised questions about whether the US could limit access to critical software updates, potentially affecting the operational capability of foreign fleets.

In response, the Joint Program Office (JPO) overseeing the F-35 program firmly stated that no such remote deactivation mechanism exists. The office emphasized that all international users have full control over their aircraft, backed by agreements ensuring complete operational functionality.

“There is no kill switch,” the JPO clarified. “The program operates under well-established agreements that guarantee all F-35 operators have the necessary capabilities to sustain and operate their aircraft effectively.”

Concerns Over Software Dependency

Despite the Pentagon’s assurances, some defense experts believe that US control over software and maintenance could still pose a strategic risk to foreign operators. Joachim Schranzhofer, head of communications at German defense firm Hensoldt, suggested that the claims of a hidden “kill switch” might not be entirely baseless.

While he did not provide specifics, Schranzhofer pointed out that the US could potentially restrict access to software updates, spare parts, or critical maintenance support—actions that could severely impact the combat readiness of foreign-operated F-35s.

A defense analyst from the Center for a New American Security explained that, in the event of political tensions, Washington could disable key functionalities of foreign F-35s without a physical kill switch. “Without regular software updates, F-35s could still fly but would be significantly more vulnerable to enemy air defenses,” he noted.

A Widespread Concern Among US Allies

As of March 2025, 14 countries operate or have ordered F-35s, including key US allies like Australia and Japan. The debate over software dependency and potential vulnerabilities continues to fuel discussions in defense circles, particularly among nations investing billions in the stealth aircraft.

While the US insists that all F-35 operators have full autonomy over their jets, the growing reliance on American software and maintenance raises broader questions about long-term control over advanced military assets. For now, the Pentagon maintains that exported F-35s remain fully operational under the control of their respective nations, with no external mechanism for remote shutdown.