The concept of a “kill switch” in the F-35 fighter jet refers to a mechanism that would allow the U.S. to remotely disable or limit the combat functions of F-35s operated by foreign alliees.
While Lockheed Martin and various governments have denied the existence of such a feature, stating that no dedicated “kill switch” is needed to control foreign-operated F-35s, South Korean army says that they need to get permission from US to switch on the jet. In addition, Germany may cancel its 88 units F-35 order due to fear of kill switch.
Even kill switch is a rumor, the U.S. could exert influence by withholding logistical support or software updates, which are crucial for maintaining the aircraft’s operational capabilities. The F-35 relies heavily on systems like the Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS) and its successor, Operational Data Integrated Network (ODIN), for maintenance and mission data updates.
Overall, controlling F-35s via kill switch is highly likely. Its being a myth doesn’t change the fact that US may not upgrade software or distort it remotely.
