Europe's Big Jet Plan: Can Three Countries Fly Together?

Europe is embarking on an ambitious project to build a new fighter jet, dubbed the Future Combat Air System (FCAS). The collaboration involves Germany, France, and Spain, with a significant milestone meeting scheduled for December 11.

Project Goals and Timeline

• Target Completion Year: 2040
• Estimated Cost: 100 billion euros

Challenges and Delays

Despite the ambitious goals, the project faces considerable hurdles:

1. Disagreements Among Companies:

   • France's Dassault Aviation and Airbus are at odds over roles and responsibilities.
   • These disputes are causing delays.

2. Leadership Intervention:

   • The leaders of France and Germany discussed the project last month to spur progress.
   • However, resolving the issues remains challenging.

Comparison with GCAP

The FCAS project is similar to another initiative, the GCAP, involving the UK, Italy, and Japan. They also aim to develop a fighter jet with drones by 2040.

Conclusion

The success of the FCAS project remains uncertain. Only time will tell if Europe can overcome its challenges and achieve its goals.