European Defense Cooperation Faces Major Test as France and Germany Weigh Options

France and Germany are reevaluating the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) fighter aircraft component due to industrial tensions between partners. The two countries may cancel the joint New Generation Fighter (NGF) and focus on the combat cloud architecture. This decision follows disagreements over intellectual property, workshare, and program governance. French and German defense ministers are expected to meet in November 2025 to discuss the program’s direction.