Leaders of France and Germany are set to discuss the future of the troubled Future Combat Air System (FCAS) during an upcoming EU summit. The project, which also includes Spain, aims to develop a next-generation air combat system but is now at risk due to ongoing disputes between major industry players.

The conflict centers around disagreements between Dassault Aviation and Airbus over control and leadership of the fighter jet program. While Dassault is pushing for greater authority over the aircraft’s core development, Airbus insists on maintaining equal partnership terms, creating tensions that threaten to derail the €100 billion initiative.

Despite growing concerns, Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz are expected to explore ways to keep the project alive. A collapse of FCAS could significantly reshape Europe’s defense industry, potentially shifting alliances and boosting rival programs like the UK-led GCAP fighter initiative.

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