Aviation News – Germany and France have agreed to abandon a flagship project to develop a next-generation European fighter jet after failing to overcome longstanding industrial disputes between the companies involved. The decision marks a significant setback for one of Europe’s most ambitious defence initiatives and raises new questions about future military cooperation on the continent.
The agreement was reached following discussions between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron during the EU-Western Balkans summit in Montenegro last week. According to German officials, both leaders concluded that there was no realistic path to resolving months of disagreements between defence contractors participating in the programme. The project had been viewed as a cornerstone of European defence integration and technological independence.
The planned next-generation fighter aircraft was intended to deliver advanced combat capabilities and serve as the backbone of future European air forces. The programme aimed to combine cutting-edge technologies, including enhanced connectivity, advanced sensors, and integrated combat systems, while strengthening Europe’s defence-industrial base. However, disputes over workshare, leadership responsibilities, and industrial control repeatedly delayed progress.
