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Germany and France Consider Scaling Back Fighter Jet Project

11/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Germany and France are weighing a reduction of the 100-billion-euro Future Combat Air System (FCAS) by dropping joint plans for a new fighter jet.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron are expected to decide by year-end whether FCAS continues or alternatives are pursued, amid disagreements since 2017 over design and workshare.
The project aims to boost European defense cooperation but faces challenges after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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Story summary

Germany and France are weighing a reduction of the 100-billion-euro Future Combat Air System (FCAS) by dropping joint plans for a new fighter jet.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron are expected to decide by year-end whether FCAS continues or alternatives are pursued, amid disagreements since 2017 over design and workshare.
The project aims to boost European defense cooperation but faces challenges after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.