Franco-German Fighter Jet Project's Future Hangs in Balance

Plans to address the Franco-German fighter jet project FCAS are in motion, as Chancellor Merz and President Macron aim to resolve issues involving workshare disputes. The defence ministers from Germany, France, and Spain will meet, though official comments on schedule remain limited.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to discuss the future of the troubled Franco-German fighter jet project, FCAS, during the week of December 15. Industry sources revealed the high-stakes talks on Saturday.

The 100-billion-euro ($116 billion) Future Combat Air System has faced continuous challenges, predominantly over disputes between involved companies concerning workshare and valuable technology. The project, now more than eight years in the making, demands resolution to move forward.

Defence ministers from Germany, France, and Spain will convene on December 11 to deliberate over the project. While German officials have remained tight-lipped about Chancellor Merz's schedule, France has offered no immediate comment. Currently, $1 equals 0.8590 euros.

(With inputs from agencies.)