Core Viewpoint - The FCAS project, a significant European defense initiative, is facing severe challenges due to disagreements between France and Germany regarding control and development shares, potentially leading to a split in collaboration [1][2][7]. Group 1: Project Background - The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) was announced in July 2017 by France and Germany, with Spain joining in 2019, aiming to develop an integrated system to replace existing fighter jets [2]. - The New Generation Fighter (NGF) is the core of the FCAS project, designed as a sixth-generation stealth aircraft with advanced capabilities [2][4]. Group 2: Current Challenges - The project has faced delays, with a contract originally planned for 2021 still not signed, and the first flight of the NGF prototype now pushed to 2030 [2][4]. - Disputes over work shares and core technology leadership have intensified, with France demanding 80% of the development share, leading to German dissatisfaction [4][6]. Group 3: Historical Context - Historical precedents exist where France and Germany have previously split on aircraft development, creating a sense of mistrust in their current collaboration [6]. - France's concerns about maintaining control stem from past experiences, while Germany fears being sidelined in technology development [6]. Group 4: External Influences - Germany's decision to procure F-35 fighter jets has reduced its urgency for the FCAS project, leading to speculation about alternative collaborations, including with the UK [6][8]. - The existence of alternative projects like the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) has provided Germany with other options, further complicating the FCAS collaboration [6][8]. Group 5: Future Prospects - The future of the FCAS project could lead to either a fragile compromise or a complete breakdown of collaboration, with significant implications for European defense autonomy [7][8]. - A complete split would force France to independently develop its aircraft, while Germany might seek to lead a new coalition with other nations, potentially undermining European defense ambitions [8].