Story perspectives
Airbus Proposes Split for Future Fighter Jet Amid Disputes
2/19/2026
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Story summary
- Airbus proposed dividing Europe’s future fighter jet program into two warplanes amid leadership disputes among manufacturers.
- The €100 billion project includes Germany, Spain, and France, with Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury stressing the importance of cooperation for European defense.
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated the planned jet does not meet Germany's needs, citing technical concerns.
- Airbus reported a 23% profit increase to €2 billion but experienced a 6% drop in shares due to supply chain issues affecting A320 production.
- Deliveries reached their lowest level since 2020, benefiting competitor Boeing.
