Leonardo Jets for Federal Army: Greens Warn of "Eurofighter Scandal 2.0"

It is unclear why there was no international tender for the required training jets and why the choice fell on the model of the Italian manufacturer, which is considered a "luxury jet," criticized the Greens' defense spokesperson, David Stögmüller, at a press conference on Tuesday. He called for more transparency and warned of the danger of a possible "Eurofighter scandal 2.0".

Greens point to internal criticism in the Ministry of Defense regarding the procurement process of Leonardo jets

The Green MP cannot understand the technical requirements set by the Ministry of Defense for the new training jets, which are to replace the Saab 105 training jets decommissioned in 2020. Why they need combat equipment and air refueling is "extremely questionable" for Stögmüller, as Austria currently does not have any air refueling equipment. Since only the M-346FA meets this requirement, it seems as if the decision for the jet was made before the criteria were defined, stated the Green defense spokesperson.

There was also internal criticism in the Ministry of Defense regarding the procurement process and the lack of an international tender, according to Stögmüller, referring to a report from the Internal Audit. The internal documents from the Ministry of Defense have been handed over by the Greens to the Economic and Corruption Prosecutor's Office (WKStA) so that possible criminal suspicions can be clarified. He initially did not want to say what these could be. However, if the criteria were tailored, it would be a matter of corruption, said Stögmüller.

The Greens also criticize a careless handling of taxpayers' money and a "skewed appearance" in view of the strained budget situation regarding the rumored purchase price of around one billion euros. Other countries like Nigeria or Poland have acquired Leonardo aircraft significantly cheaper, Stögmüller claims. He calls for clarification in parliamentary inquiries to the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Justice, and the Financial Procurator's Office.

Ministry of Defense rejects allegations regarding the procurement process of Leonardo jets

The Ministry of Defense had already denied the allegations on Monday following a corresponding "Standard" report. In a statement, it was emphasized that the type decision was made according to the guideline for awarding contracts between governments in the fields of defense and security. The performance description corresponds to a neutral representation of the needs of the Federal Army. Regarding the costs, it was pointed out that negotiations for procurement are still ongoing, which is why the exact price and equipment are still unclear. Due to the different technological equipment of the jets, a cost comparison with the procurement of other countries is in any case not appropriate.

Regarding the criticism of the Internal Audit, it was noted that it is the task and nature of an audit to ask critical questions. The interim report cited by Stögmüller and "Standard" was from the summer of 2024. In the final information in October, no misconduct was found, said the head of the Internal Audit, Major General Hans Hamberger, in the statement. In an internal investigation conducted since the beginning of 2024 by the Directorate of Control due to anonymously submitted hints, the allegations were also found to be partially unverifiable and largely incorrect.

ÖVP Accuses Greens of "Conspiracy Theories" Regarding Leonardo Jets Procurement Process

ÖVP defense spokesperson Friedrich Ofenauer reacted more sharply on Tuesday. He accused the Greens of following "groundless allegations" and "conspiracy theories" "in the footsteps of Herbert Kickl" towards a "rabid opposition course." The purchase of the aircraft is factually justified and necessary. Given the ongoing contract negotiations, talking about an overly expensive procurement now is "absurd and unprofessional."

The twelve ordered M-346FA jets are being acquired in cooperation with Italy. The two-seater, weapon-capable subsonic jets are intended for the training of pilots, support of ground forces, and airspace defense. The first machines are expected in Austria between 2027 and 2029. Austria opted for the "FA" variant of the jet trainer, which also offers the possibility of equipping with ground attack weapons. It has not yet been decided with which weapon systems this new system will be delivered.

(APA/Red)

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