Germany is weighing a purchase of additional US‑built F-35 fighter jets amid growing deadlock over the Future Combat Air System (FCAS).
Sources familiar with the discussions told Reuters that Berlin has held talks that could lead to the purchase of more than 35 additional F-35s. This move underscores frustration with stalled progress on the joint European program and deepening reliance on US technology.
Although German officials have publicly denied any firm decision, the debate highlights widening cracks in FCAS — a multibillion‑euro effort launched in 2017 by France, Germany, and Spain to produce a sixth‑generation fighter jet integrated with drones and advanced networking systems.
In contrast to ongoing political uncertainty over FCAS’ future, the F‑35 presents a ready‑made capability that could bridge capability gaps.
How FCAS Has Evolved
The Future Combat Air System is Europe’s flagship program to develop a next‑generation air combat ecosystem built around a new fighter aircraft, uncrewed platforms, and a “combat cloud” linking sensors, weapons, and command networks across domains.
It is intended to replace France’s Rafale and the Eurofighter Typhoon jets operated by Germany and Spain by around 2040 and is considered central to European strategic autonomy.
However, the program has been beset by industrial and political disputes, particularly over workshare and leadership roles.
In 2025, disagreements intensified as France reportedly sought up to an 80 percent share of the core fighter jet work, a demand seen as undermining cooperative balance with Germany and Spain and potentially delaying progress.
By late 2025, tensions had escalated further, with a German lawmaker publicly urging a split from France on the fighter component to better align with national requirements, even as core elements such as the combat cloud and unmanned systems remained collaborative.
Europe’s defense industry has also raised alternative proposals.
In early 2026, Airbus said it would support a two‑fighter solution if participating countries requested it, hinting at a potential reconfiguration of FCAS rather than outright cancellation.
