Minister of National Defence Nuno Melo stated that the selection of aircraft to replace the Air Force's F-16s will follow a process guided by technical committees, not yet underway. Challenged by Socialist MP Hugo Oliveira to reveal a preference, Melo declined, citing a desire to avoid future parliamentary inquiries. He also addressed the SAFE investment programme, noting that contracts are not yet signed and emphasizing the importance of discretion. Melo reiterated that, barring issues, new military equipment—including frigates and drones—will be delivered by 2030, boosting the Portuguese defence industry. Additionally, he discussed the revision of the National Defence Strategic Concept and defended the government's approach to meeting NATO's 2% GDP defence spending target.