France and Germany Seek a European Alternative to U.S. Palantir Military Software

France and Germany announced on 23 May 2024 that they will develop a “sovereign European digital foundation” to reduce reliance on American military tools, chiefly Palantir’s Maven software. The joint declaration, issued after talks between French President Emmanuel Macron and German leader Friedrich Merz, cites the French AI-powered command platform Arcadia and “comparable German solutions” as starting points. The initiative also includes a research program for the MG CS future-tank project and a “European collaborative combat standard” for aircraft and drones.

Paris and Berlin want to create a European alternative to the military software Palantir – InterviewPolitico Europe

The move follows France’s domestic intelligence agency ending its Palantir contract in June and Germany’s intelligence service opting for French firm ChapsVision over the U.S. provider. Both nations reaffirmed cooperation on long-range missiles with the United Kingdom, on reconnaissance satellites, and on using European launchers such as Ariane 6. They also reiterated support for a potential IPO of tank-maker KNDS, pending favorable market conditions.

Paris and Berlin want to create a European alternative to the military software Palantir – Interview

The joint statement emphasizes integrating data security, artificial intelligence and cloud solutions from both countries. A senior NATO commander, however, warned that a viable European alternative does not yet exist, underscoring the technical gap the partners aim to close. The declaration does not mention the troubled FCAS fighter-jet programme, focusing instead on interoperability standards for existing and future air platforms.

Paris and Berlin want to create a European alternative to the military software Palantir – Interview

Critics note the absence of a concrete timeline or funding details, questioning whether the effort can match Palantir’s established capabilities. Some defense analysts argue that fragmented national projects may hinder the creation of a unified platform, while others view the initiative as a necessary step toward strategic autonomy.

Paris and Berlin want to create a European alternative to the military software Palantir – Interview

• “examine the development of a sovereign European digital foundation,” — France and Germany, joint declaration

Paris and Berlin want to create a European alternative to the military software Palantir – Interview

• “A top alliance commander recently told POLITICO there was no real European alternative.” — senior Alliance commander

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• “Instead, Paris and Berlin announce the creation of a "European collaborative combat standard" enabling fighter jets, combat drones, and other aircraft developed by different countries to communicate and operate together.” — joint declaration

Paris and Berlin want to create a European alternative to the military software Palantir – Interview