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Europe's Future Air Fleets

October 1, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

European airpower may feature next-gen fighters.
Legacy platforms could still be in use.
Unmanned systems may play a significant role.
Laser and electronic warfare capabilities are possible.

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Strategic Implications

The future of European airpower may indicate a shift towards unmanned systems and next-gen fighters, which could suggest a significant investment in research and development. This may also signal a change in the continent's defense priorities, with a focus on advanced technologies such as lasers and electronic warfare.

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What Happened

Experts Predict Next-Gen Fighters And Unmanned Systems

The future of European airpower is uncertain, with possibilities ranging from next-gen fighters to unmanned systems and advanced technologies like lasers and electronic warfare. A roundtable discussion featuring Breaking Defense Editor-in-Chief Aaron Mehta and other experts explores what the continent’s air forces may look like in 30 years. The panel considers the potential for legacy platforms to remain in use, as well as the role of emerging technologies in shaping the future of airpower. This discussion was first reported by Breaking Defense.

Source | Originally Published: October 1, 2026

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