French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation is becoming increasingly disillusioned with the joint European fighter jet project FCAS (Future Combat Air System). CEO Eric Trappier reiterated his company’s capability to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet independently if necessary at the opening of a factory in Cergy near Paris. When asked about this, he replied succinctly: “Yes.”
The collaboration on the €100 billion project between France, Germany, and Spain has long been overshadowed by disputes between Dassault and Airbus. Trappier spoke bluntly about the German partners: “The Germans can complain, but here we know how it’s done. If they want to do it alone, let them do it.”
The Dassault CEO demanded a clear leadership role for his company in the core component of the future fighter aircraft. “We are absolutely open to cooperation, including with the Germans, but we only ask one small thing: give us the opportunity to lead the program.” He rejected the notion that technical decisions have to be taken by all three parties: “I want the ‘best athlete’ to decide.”
Meanwhile, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius denied media reports of alternative talks with Great Britain and Sweden. Airbus also reiterated its commitment to the existing agreements. According to Trappier, talks between the partners are ongoing, but a compromise is not in sight.
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