In 2019, Foreign Policy published an article arguing that sales of F-35 fighter jets are essentially Washington’s version of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative—a “globe-spanning economic and security project” that leaves other nations dependent on the United States. But times are changing, as aviation expert Richard Aboulafia wrote earlier this month, and Washington and the F-35 may not dominate the global fighter jet market forever.

This edition of Flash Points examines the fighter jet market, where it might be headed, and the role that the U.S. aviation industry will play in its future.—Chloe Hadavas

The Fighter Jet Market Enters Its Multipolar Era

Richard Aboulafia assesses whether the F-35—and the United States—can keep up with new competition.

F-35 Sales Are America’s Belt and Road

The United States uses the fighter jet program to further its own influence while leaving allies dependent, Jonathan D. Caverley, Ethan B. Kapstein, and Srdjan Vucetic write.

Why Can’t Sweden Sell Its Fighter Jets?

When it comes to flaunting its defense industry, Stockholm is shy—and it’s hurting Swedish companies and handing lucrative contracts to competitors, FP’s Elisabeth Braw writes.

China Has Nothing to Gain From an Aerospace Alliance With Russia

Beijing is a rising power with a growing domestic aviation industry—and it no longer needs Moscow’s help, Richard Aboulafia writes.

Nordic Air Force Takes Flight

NATO may soon have an alliance within the alliance, FP’s Jack Detsch and Brawley Benson report.