Germany’s next fighter jet puts its defense partnerships to the test

Berlin faces a critical decision regarding the development of its next fighter jet: join an existing project with the UK, Italy, and Japan, or initiate a new aircraft with Sweden and Spain. This choice will shape Germany's military capabilities and diplomatic alliances for decades. The dilemma emerged after the failure of the Future Combat Air System, a troubled German fighter project with France and Spain, prompting Berlin to reassess its approach to advanced military technology partnerships with European allies.

Defense ministry assessments support collaboration with Stockholm and Madrid, citing military requirements and opportunities for German industry. However, chancellery officials, as reported anonymously to POLITICO, believe aligning with London offers diplomatic advantages. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that while each country seeks to support national industries, they also desire joint European armaments projects. Resolving this challenge is no simple task.

Germany aims to decrease its dependence on American military technology, a goal intensified by President Trump's unpredictable stance on European security. Recent issues with U.S. technology, such as satellite communication delays, American-made air defense missile supply problems, and intelligence sharing difficulties, have underscored how reliance on U.S. technology can leave countries vulnerable to Washington's decisions.

This fighter jet decision represents a pivotal moment in a broader initiative: Germany plans its own military satellite communications network estimated at €10 billion and is working with the UK to develop long-range missiles capable of striking targets over 2,000 kilometers away. It also seeks to meet NATO's defense spending goal of 3.5 percent of GDP by 2029, six years ahead of the alliance's deadline.

However, increased spending does not guarantee military independence; Germany must find partners that can deliver capabilities while allowing Germany to retain a lasting role in development and control.

Lessons from costly failures, such as the abandonment of the European next-generation fighter jet project (FCAS) in June due to industrial disagreements between German Airbus Defence and French Dassault, highlight the risks of partner disputes. The collapse of FCAS, intended to replace aging German Eurofighters, demonstrated how conflicts between partners can waste significant taxpayer funds in delays and abandoned ambitions. Now, Germany must find a suitable replacement.