Dassault Aviation and Airbus Agree on Future Combat Aircraft Development

Dassault Aviation and Airbus have reached an industrial agreement regarding the development of the next-generation fighter aircraft (NGF), a crucial element of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program. The agreement was confirmed by Dassault Aviation's Chairman and CEO, Eric Trappier, in an interview published by Le Figaro on December 1.

"The FCAS is a political project that has been at a standstill since summer 2021. So, yes, today it is done," Trappier stated, expressing satisfaction with the resolution. This agreement allows the program to move into the next phase, known as "Phase 1B," which will prepare for the development of a demonstrator aircraft expected to fly around 2029.

Dassault Aviation has been confirmed in its role as the prime contractor and architect for the aircraft. Trappier emphasized that the agreement protects the company's industrial know-how and technologies. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with partners including Airbus, Spain's Indra, and long-standing associates Safran, Thales, and MBDA.

The project is set to involve a broad ecosystem of subcontractors across France, Germany, and Spain. Dassault Aviation also plans to recruit new personnel, particularly younger individuals, to contribute to the program, building on the company's experience from the Rafale fighter jet development.