Dassault and the Struggle for European Cooperation

The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) is Europe’s ambitious plan to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet alongside drones and AI-powered command systems. However, this program has been dogged by infighting among its main partners, as France, Germany and Spain clash over control of the jet’s design and key technologies.

First of all, it is understandable that the French company Dassault, which manufactures the Rafale, wants to lead the fighter jet component of the FCAS. With decades of expertise in designing cutting-edge combat aircraft, the company possesses the technical know-how and industrial experience essential for such an ambitious project. From Dassault’s perspective, maintaining control over key technologies is not only a matter of pride but also a strategic necessity to protect France’s defense capabilities.

Germany and Spain, through Airbus, naturally push for a more equal workshare to ensure that the benefits (and responsibilities) of FCAS are fairly distributed.

Yet, this position comes with risks. By insisting on a dominant role, Dassault risks slowing down the program, creating friction with its German and Spanish partners, and potentially isolating itself from broader European industrial cooperation. In the long term, this could undermine the very goals of FCAS: building a truly integrated European defense system and sharing costs and risks across multiple nations.

This tension reflects a broader challenge for European defense collaboration. Countries (and companies) often struggle to make concessions, especially when national pride, economic interests, and sensitive technologies are at stake. 

Ultimately, Dassault’s position highlights a critical dilemma in European defense projects: expertise and leadership must be respected, but overemphasis on national or corporate control can hinder cooperation. Finding a middle ground that protects sensitive knowledge while fostering genuine collaboration remains essential if Europe wants to deliver a next-generation fighter that truly represents a joint effort.

Author: Malaury Vidon