Airbus and Saab: A New European Defence Alliance on the Horizon?

Airbus explores a partnership with Saab as the FCAS fighter program halts, signaling a shift in European defence alliances. Talks highlight strong Germany-Sweden relations, with interest in collaboration on future fighter technologies. Political and industrial barriers remain as Europe reshapes its defence landscape.

Amid a potential reshaping of European defence alliances, Airbus is eyeing a collaboration with Sweden’s Saab following the breakdown of a Franco-German fighter programme, sources say.

The partnership with Saab, noted for its Gripen jets, is among options for Airbus, which represents Germany and Spain in the fighter market. Exploratory talks have been ongoing for at least six months, supported by improving defence ties between Germany and Sweden.

Airbus Defence & Space CEO Michael Schoellhorn confirmed interest in Saab during an interview, while Saab maintains that any collaboration decision would be political. However, officials hint at complexities, such as European military, political, and industrial alignment challenges, along with the project's strategic implications.