"France and Germany Have High Hopes for New Fighter Jet" Topic

"Few things in the realm of defense are as enticing as the prospect of a new fighter aircraft. Now, Franco-German cooperation could not only yield a next generation jet fighter, but boost defense integration on the Continent. The two countries agreed in July to proceed with the development of a new jet to eventually replace their existing fighter fleets. The decision, which French President Emmanuel Macron labeled a "far-reaching revolution," also has broad implications for global fighter sales. However, it will take more than a joint fighter project to satisfy Franco-German ambitions for greater European defense integration.
The Costs of Defense
Given the sheer costs of developing a next generation fighter — with its requisite stealth, cutting-edge avionics and highly advanced engine — it is not clear that any Western European country can afford to go it alone anymore. Combining resources and design efforts improves the chances of a next generation jet emerging from Europe. This in turn would enable Europe to compete with fighters from the United States, Russia and China. Then European countries could not only avoid having to import foreign — most likely U.S.-made — fighter aircraft, but could also compete in the global defense …."
Main page
link

Amicalement
Armand

Not exactly a new concept. Past joint projects include the Jaguar, Tornado and Eurofighter. The trick is to persuade countries other than the builders to buy the thing.

With the cost of the F-35 that might not be hard to do.

And if that doesn't work the French can always bribe people like they did when they couldn't sell the Alpha jet.

(smile)

Amicalement
Armand

I cannot see the British getting involved in this project, given the commitment to the F35? Also, the rumbling fall-out over Brexit etc.

These 'Euro' Defence Projects always seem to be a bottomless pit which eats tax-payer's money for 10 years, then everyone gives up and pulls out of the project / massively reduces their order.

Have France and Germany ever successfully collaborated on any defence project?