Dutch Defense Minister Says F-35 Fighter Jet Software Could Be “Jailbroken” Like an iPhone

Dutch Defense Minister Says F-35 Fighter Jet Software Could Be “Jailbroken” Like an iPhone

Dutch Defense Minister Gijs Tuinman has said it may be possible to “jailbreak” the F-35 fighter jet’s software, comparing the process to bypassing restrictions on an iPhone or gaming console. The remark, made during a podcast interview, highlights growing European concerns about dependence on U.S.-controlled military technology. Jailbreaking refers to removing manufacturer-imposed software restrictions to […] The post Dutch Defense Minister Says…

No, You Can’t Just 'Jailbreak' the F-35

Claims about modifying the F-35’s software raise legitimate sovereignty questions. But cybersecurity architecture, cryptography, and sustainment realities define strict limits on what can and cannot be done. As we reported in detail in a previous story, on Feb. 15, 2026, talking to the BNR Nieuwsradio Podcast, Dutch State Secretary for Defence Gijs Tuinman suggested that […]