Germany Weighs 15 More F-35s After FCAS Collapse, Eyes GCAP or National Jet Program
Updated
Updated · Defense News · Jun 9
Germany Weighs 15 More F-35s After FCAS Collapse, Eyes GCAP or National Jet Program
3 articles · Updated · Defense News · Jun 9
Summary
Boris Pistorius said Germany is reassessing its next-generation fighter plans after FCAS ended, with options including 15 additional U.S. F-35s, joining an existing sixth-generation program, or launching a German-led effort.
The extra F-35s—on top of 35 already ordered—could cost nearly $3 billion and serve as a bridge until a longer-term next-generation aircraft is chosen.
Pistorius pointed to the British-Italian-Japanese GCAP as the clearest existing multinational alternative, while saying Berlin has already discussed a domestic Airbus-led path for months.
He blamed FCAS's demise on irreconcilable disputes with Dassault over intellectual property and differing military requirements, saying Paris and Berlin could not force industry partners to cooperate.
His remarks suggest Germany had anticipated FCAS's failure and is now shifting toward faster, more controllable procurement options for future air combat capability.