The ambitious Franco-German-Spanish Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, designed to develop a next-generation fighter jet, is back on track after initial delays due to disagreements between partner nations.
Learning to Collaborate: Launched in 2017, the project initially faced friction between Airbus and Dassault Aviation over workload distribution. However, both companies acknowledge the need for cooperation, citing ongoing collaborations on other projects as evidence of a more unified approach.
.gif)
The FCAS Vision: This program aims to deliver a comprehensive combat system, consisting of a new fighter jet replacing existing models, uncrewed aerial vehicles (remote carriers), and a combat cloud network for enhanced coordination. The target operational date is around 2040.
Streamlined Management: To improve efficiency, France's DGA defense procurement agency will oversee the program, interacting with a consortium of companies from all three partner nations. Engine development is a joint venture between MTU and Safran (EUMET), with Spain's ITP Aero contributing.
Phase 1B: Defining the Future: Currently in progress, this €3.85 billion phase focuses on technological development for the demonstrator aircraft. Seven working groups, divided among the partner countries, are defining key areas like fighter jet design, engine technology, and remote carrier functionalities.
Innovation Through Flexibility: A unique feature of the program is the use of "flex tokens" to encourage contributions from non-traditional suppliers, fostering innovation and potentially expanding the industrial base.
Demonstrations and Milestones: While many major demonstrations are planned for Phase 2 (starting mid-2025), initial steps include flight tests of sensor packages and a demonstrator aircraft using an existing engine model. The ultimate goal is to create a state-of-the-art fighter with advanced low-observability features by 2040.
**Remote Carriers: A Key Component:** Expendable and recoverable remote carriers play a crucial role in the FCAS concept. These unmanned vehicles will serve as decoys, jammers, weapon platforms, and extended sensor networks, significantly enhancing the fighter's capabilities.
Beyond the Core Partners: Belgium has joined as an observer, financially contributing to secure industrial participation in the next phase. Other countries, like Saudi Arabia, have expressed interest in a full partnership.
Building Trust, Moving Forward: While acknowledging past challenges, program officials emphasize the importance of trust and understanding for navigating future decision-making. The FCAS program, despite its initial hurdles, appears to be gaining momentum, with a renewed focus on collaboration and innovation as it strives to deliver a next-generation combat aircraft system.