We can build fighter jet without Germany: France’s Dassault

CERGY-PONTOISE, France: The head of French defence company Dassault said on Tuesday his firm could build the future European fighter jet by itself, as tensions persist with Germany over the multi-billion-euro project.

The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme was launched in 2017 to replace ageing planes used by France, Germany and Spain.

But the scheme, jointly developed by the three countries, has stalled as disagreements grow between Dassault and Airbus, which represents German and Spanish interests.

“The answer is yes,” Dassault´s Eric Trappier said when asked by reporters at a factory opening event if Dassault could build a sixth-generation fighter jet on its own.

“I don´t mind if the Germans are complaining. If they want to do it on their own, let them do it on their own,” he added. Analysts estimate it will cost 100 billion euros to develop the new jet and its cutting-edge technologies scheduled to be operational in 2040.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who took power in May, have been at pains to boost the political partnership at the heart of the European Union, as US President Donald Trump has rocked transatlantic ties.

Both European leaders have expressed support for the fighter jet project but tensions between the two aerospace contractors have marred cooperation.