Éric Trappier, the CEO of Dassault Aviation, recently addressed the National Assembly defense committee in Paris regarding the collaboration between Dassault and Airbus on developing a European sixth-generation fighter jet. The discussions highlighted ongoing difficulties in cooperation, primarily due to disputes over work share among partners.
In December 2022, France, Germany, and Spain awarded Dassault, Airbus, Indra Sistemas, and Eumet a contract worth €3.2 billion (approximately $3.6 billion) for Phase 1B of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS). This phase covers research, technology, and overall design for the new generation fighter, also known as the NGF. Following over a year of disputes, agreement on the next-generation fighter was reached earlier in December 2022.
Trappier indicated that after the development phase, the next step involves building a demonstrator, with Phase 2 expected to be announced in 2026. The first flight is scheduled for 2029. However, disagreements over workload allocation are causing delays in reaching agreements for Phase 2.
Responding to Trappier’s recent claims, Airbus asserted that the FCAS program is making significant progress, having completed a concept selection review as part of Phase 1B. They expressed commitment to FCAS, calling it vital for European defense and strategic autonomy.
Trappier pointed out that the fragmented nature of the FCAS partnership leads to delays, as constant negotiations on co-development complicate progress. He emphasized that Dassault has limited decision-making power in the group, holding only one third of the vote, which hampers their ability to manage workload distribution effectively.
Trappier cited the successful French-led nEUROn drone project as a model for effective cooperation, contrasting it with the current challenges facing the NGF program. He criticized the “geo return” principle, which ensures nations receive work shares proportional to their investments, calling it detrimental to successful European collaborations.
Discussing France’s strategic goals, Trappier stressed the need for the next-generation fighter to fulfill nuclear deterrence roles independently, aligning with France’s defense policy. He cautioned against mutual dependence on allies, arguing that as cooperation increases, so too does reliance on others.
Trappier expressed confidence in Dassault’s capabilities to develop a stealth-capable fighter independently if needed. He clarified that the FCAS will not compete with the existing Rafale fighters, which will continue to operate alongside the new system. Additionally, Dassault is evolving the Rafale capabilities and ensuring connectivity ahead of its planned upgrades.
In January 2024, France announced plans to purchase 42 Rafale jets for more than €5 billion, signaling continued investment in air combat capabilities. French President Emmanuel Macron has indicated intentions to order more Rafale jets in the future, with two squadrons planned at Luxeuil-Saint-Saveur air base.
Trappier’s statements mark the challenges and complexities inherent in multinational defense collaborations, as he calls for a reevaluation of how partnerships are structured, aiming to enhance efficiency and maintain French autonomy in defense matters. The future remains uncertain as Dassault continues to navigate these issues while striving for advancements in the FCAS program.
