BERLIN

Germany's government is seeking parliamentary approval to purchase 15 additional US-made F-35 fighter jets, local media reported on Monday.

According to newsmagazine Der Spiegel, the government has requested approximately €2.5 billion ($2.9 billion) from parliament's Budget Committee for the planned purchase.

Defense Ministry spokesman Kenneth Harms declined on Monday to comment on the reports, telling a Berlin press briefing he generally cannot discuss confidential discussions or military procurement plans.

Germany initially ordered 35 Lockheed Martin F-35s in 2022 to replace its aging Tornado fighter jets. The first aircraft are scheduled to arrive in 2027.

With the additional purchase, the ministry plans to expand the country's F-35 fleet to 50 aircraft.

The advanced fighter jets are critical to NATO's nuclear deterrence policy, as they can deliver nuclear bombs.