Future Combat Air System: too big to fail; differing perceptions and high complexity jeopardise success of Strategic Armament Project

Abstract

The development of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) is Europe’s most important defence project. Both technologically and militarily, the project has the potential to set new standards and revolutionise the use of air power. Politically, the multinational project is a litmus test for the extent to which Europe is capable of cooperating on security policy, developing its own capabilities and putting national interests to one side for this purpose. The success of the project rides to a great extent on Germany and France. However, the different perspectives and procedures of these two coun­tries place FCAS at risk of collapse - a failure that would have serious disadvantages for all involved. (author's abstract)