Germany Seizes Opportunity Amid Fighter Jet Setbacks

WHO:

politico.eu - Germany, France, Dassault, Éric Trappier, United Arab Emirates, Italian defense firm Leonardo, Boris Pistorius, Airbus, Sweden’s Saab, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, MTU Aero Engines, Stephanie Lingemann, Emirates President Tim Clark.

WHAT:

politico.eu - Germany's defense spending was €46.9 billion in 2019, surpassing France's €44.2 billion.

politico.eu - By 2029, Germany is expected to spend €153 billion a year on defense.

politico.eu - France plans to reach €72.8 billion in defense spending by 2029.

Defense News - The Franco-German Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program collapsed after months of disputes.

Defense News - Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius listed three options for Germany's fighter needs: purchase more F-35s, join an existing international program, or start a new program under German leadership.

Defense News - The ILA air show hosted more than 750 exhibitors from 37 countries.

Defense News - Germany's cabinet approved a new 15-year aviation strategy aimed at cutting costs and boosting research.

WHERE:

Defense News - The ILA air show took place in Berlin.

Defense News - The FCAS program involved Germany and France.

WHEN:

Defense News - The ILA air show runs from June 10 to 14.

Defense News - The FCAS program was first planned in 2017.

Defense News - The target date for the GCAP project to have a new aircraft flying is 2035.

WHY:

politico.eu - Germany's military expansion is in line with NATO's target for 2035.

Defense News - The collapse of the FCAS program was due to industrial rivalry between French and German industries.

Defense News - The decision to reshape alliances comes amid a growing threat from Russia and pressure from the U.S. for Europe to re-arm more quickly.

HOW:

politico.eu - France's Rafale jet was developed with strong export sales financing.

Defense News - Leonardo's CEO warned that adding Germany to the GCAP program could push back the delivery date.

Defense News - Airbus is looking to partner with Sweden’s Saab for next-gen fighter development.

(UPDATED June 11, 2026 12:20 UTC)

Germany's defense spending has significantly outpaced France's, reaching €46.9 billion in 2019, and is projected to soar to €153 billion annually by 2029, while France aims for €72.8 billion by the same year. The collapse of the Franco-German Future Combat Air System program has prompted Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to consider three options for future fighter needs, including purchasing more F-35s or initiating a new program under German leadership. Meanwhile, the ILA air show in Berlin, running from June 10 to 14, showcases over 750 exhibitors from 37 countries, highlighting the ongoing efforts to reshape military alliances amid rising tensions and the need for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities.