France reaffirms SCAF project

Catherine Vautrin, France’s minister of the Armed Forces, confirmed during a Senate hearing on October 27 that the Future Air Combat System (SCAF) project remains active. France, Germany, and Spain continue to work together on "connectivity," which refers to a shared digital infrastructure known as the "combat cloud."

Germany abandons NGF program

Germany halted its New Generation Fighter (NGF) program in June, which had been the foundation for the SCAF. Despite assurances from German defense contractors like Airbus Defence & Space GmbH that they could develop a sixth-generation fighter, Germany has yet to establish a "Plan B" for its future air capabilities.

Spain faces a dilemma

Spain is now caught in a difficult situation as it tries to balance its military partnerships with France and Germany. Meanwhile, France is prepared to move forward with its ACF (Future Combat Aircraft) program without necessarily requiring large-scale international cooperation.

Germany weighs multiple options

Germany has three potential paths forward: developing a fighter independently, which it has not done since the Heinkel He 162, cooperating with Spain or Sweden, or joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) led by the UK, Italy, and Japan. An internal German defense note suggested cooperation with Sweden and Spain may be more advantageous, but this is not yet an official decision.

Germany’s interest in GCAP grows

Germany has been considering the GCAP since at least 2023, with reports suggesting it might have already decided to leave the SCAF project. While the German Ministry of Defense denied these claims, British media continue to report on Germany’s interest. In 2024, Germany and the UK announced plans to develop drones that could support their fighter aircraft.

Italy and UK invite Germany to join GCAP

Germany is being encouraged to join the GCAP by Italy and the UK, despite the program's development being paused by the GIGO (GCAP International Government Organisation) agreement in December 2024. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto noted that more countries, including Canada, are interested in participating and that Germany could join as well.

UK urges Germany to join GCAP

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently proposed that Germany join the GCAP, emphasizing the importance of advancing the program. This has led to discussions between Airbus Defence & Space GmbH and BAE Systems, according to a Financial Times insider report. However, Japan is hesitant to add new partners to avoid delays in its own fighter development.

Germany seeks closer ties with Japan

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo on October 28 to discuss Germany’s potential role in the GCAP. Merz stated that Germany is evaluating its options for participation and that discussions between the two countries’ defense ministers are expected soon. Japan, however, is cautious about expanding the program.