Story perspectives

Germany’s Defense Ministry Backs Gripen Partnership Over GCAP

By Drooid · Oct 22, 2026, 6:38 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Germany’s defence ministry recommends a Swedish-Spanish fighter jet partnership instead of joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
The assessment says GCAP targets missions beyond Germany’s continental-Europe needs and would give German manufacturers limited development share.
It proposes an Airbus-Saab joint venture using the Gripen E as a stepping stone.
Airbus says it would cooperate if German and Spanish firms receive equal roles.
Minister Boris Pistorius has not endorsed the recommendation.

1 of 1

Story summary

Germany’s defence ministry recommends a Swedish-Spanish fighter jet partnership instead of joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
The assessment says GCAP targets missions beyond Germany’s continental-Europe needs and would give German manufacturers limited development share.
It proposes an Airbus-Saab joint venture using the Gripen E as a stepping stone.
Airbus says it would cooperate if German and Spanish firms receive equal roles.
Minister Boris Pistorius has not endorsed the recommendation.