"Immediate deterrent power" is one of Lockheed's trump cards to sell the F-35 to Portugal

Lockheed Martin emphasized interoperability during a recent visit by Portuguese journalists to their F-35 assembly facility in Texas. The company views interoperability as a key selling point for Portugal's potential investment of up to 5 billion euros for around 30 aircraft. The F-35 would integrate Portugal into a network of 20 countries already using the aircraft, enhancing military collaboration. The aircraft's advanced technology, including sensor fusion and stealth capabilities, offers significant tactical advantages. However, maintaining stealth requires specialized infrastructure and training for pilots, which adds to the overall cost. The F-35's design allows for versatile operations, making it a compelling option for Portugal's air force.