After Failed Alliance with France, Will Germany Turn to Britain in Fighter Jet Deal?

The German government intends to finalize its position by the end of March 2027 regarding participation in an international project to develop a new fighter jet, following the stalling of the joint German-French "FCAS" project. Berlin is considering joining the "GCAP" program led by Britain.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated in comments to the Funke Media Group newspapers that he is strongly interested in the participation of the German aviation industry in the project, noting that the German industry cannot execute a project of this magnitude alone.

The minister clarified that there are two options on the table: first, Germany's participation in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), which involves Britain, Italy, and Japan, adding that discussions on this matter are already underway.

Pistorius said: "We must, for example, examine whether German participation could lead to greater time delays, which may be largely unacceptable for all parties involved."

The second option involves Airbus developing an independent project, in cooperation with other European partners, targeting the start of work in the early 2040s.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham had offered German Chancellor Friedrich Merz last October collaboration on developing a new fighter jet within the "GCAP" program.

The German-French fighter jet project "FCAS" stalled last summer after both sides failed to reach an agreement despite years of negotiations.