Germany and Spain launch Airbus-led sixth-generation fighter program after FCAS collapse
Germany and France terminated cooperation on the fighter element of the Future Combat Air System after disputes between Dassault Aviation and Airbus Defence and Space, Politico. eu reported. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever subsequently criticised the two countries for failing to reach an agreement, warning that Europe’s relevance in air defence was at risk, the outlet added. Germany’s defence minister then outlined several paths forward, including additional F-35 purchases, joining an international sixth-generation fighter programme, or launching a domestic effort, Defense News said. A later Politico.
eu report noted that Germany, France, Spain and other partners were weighing national development, further F-35 buys or participation in other multinational projects. Leonardo CEO Lorenzo Mariani welcomed the prospect of German entry into the Italo-Japanese-UK GCAP programme but cautioned it could push back the planned 2035 first flight, Defense News quoted. Following the FCAS termination, Germany announced a new aviation strategy that positions its industry to lead a sixth-generation fighter programme, Politico. eu reported. Airbus subsequently unveiled a German-Spanish led initiative, Team Gen 6, to develop a sixth-generation combat jet, but the project still requires political and financial backing and additional partners, The War Zone noted.
