F-35 – A Litmus Test for U.S. Alliance Strength

In May 2023, the U.S. rejected Thailand’s bid to procure Lockheed Martin F-35A aircraft, citing production constraints and inadequate existing infrastructure on the receiving end. While partially true, other evidence suggests Thailand’s request was never seriously considered due in part to Bangkok’s tentative, yet growing relationship with China.

The U.S.’s meticulous approach to F-35 approval highlights Washington’s doubts about the strength of global alliances as nations...