Airbus seeks major role in new European fighter jet project

Michael Schöllhorn, head of Airbus Defence and Space, is calling for a significant industrial share in a new European fighter jet project intended to replace the Eurofighter. Speaking to Handelsblatt, Schöllhorn argued that since Germany will contribute substantial funding to such a project, its industry should receive a corresponding stake.

Airbus seeks new partners following the failure of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project with France. Schöllhorn expressed skepticism toward large, multi-nation partnerships involving many participants, suggesting that cooperation between two or three national system houses would be more efficient. He specifically noted a positive industrial history with Sweden's Saab.

While the UK has offered cooperation, Schöllhorn noted that BAE Systems is currently developing a stealth jet alongside Italy and Japan. He emphasized that a decision on this multi-billion euro project must be made by the end of the year to avoid losing critical time.