Defense news in Portugal

The Social Democratic Party (Partido Social Democrata or PSD) and the CDS-PP have requested a parliamentary hearing for Minister of Defence Nuno Melo to address concerns regarding the acquisition of three frigates from Italy. The request follows allegations on social media that a Portuguese company was improperly sidelined during the process, a claim Nuno Melo has denied by stating that the purchase was a state-to-state negotiation.

Minister of National Defence Nuno Melo has publicly opposed the creation of a European army, arguing that continental security remains most effective through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (Organização do Tratado do Atlântico Norte or NATO). Melo stressed that European defence requires the participation of the United States to maintain stability, despite acknowledging the need for Europe to increase its own military investment and capacity.

Portugal is participating in a large-scale NATO military exercise in the Mediterranean Sea from Monday through Thursday. Known as Neptune Strike 26, the operation is led by the Alliance's Naval Striking and Support Forces, which are based in Oeiras. The exercise involves several member nations, including France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Turkey.

The President of the Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, has advocated for a renegotiation of the Bilateral Defense and Cooperation Agreement with the United States. Bolieiro argues that a review is necessary to compensate the region for its increased geostrategic value, though he acknowledged the current political climate in the U.S. may complicate such discussions.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call with the Portuguese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, to discuss bilateral ties and transatlantic security. Marco Rubio thanked Portugal for its close cooperation in both economic and defense sectors. The conversation highlights the continued strength of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The Lajes Air Base (Base das Lajes) on Terceira Island has recorded its highest number of American aircraft since the start of the conflict in Iran. Currently, 32 US Air Force and Navy planes are stationed there, including 15 refueling tankers and electronic warfare aircraft used for missions in the Middle East. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro stated that the increased activity complies with existing bilateral agreements between Portugal and the United States.