France, Germany sign contract to develop fighter jet prototype

France and Germany signed a 150 million euro ($161.84 million) deal on Thursday to develop a prototype of the next generation fighter jet, a project seen as vital for Europe to defend itself without relying on allies in an increasingly uncertain world.

German Defense Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer shakes hands with French Defense Minister Florence Parly next to Spanish Defense Junior Minister Angel Olivares Ramirez as they sign contracts for next phase in development of the Franco-German-Spanish Future Combat Air System (FCAS / SCAF), Europe’s next-generation fighter jet, in Paris, France, February 20, 2020.

Dassault Aviation and Airbus will build the aircraft, which is expected to be operational from 2040 with a view to replacing Dassault’s Rafale and Germany’s Eurofighter warplanes over time.

“This is a very ambitious project between France, Germany and joined by Spain,” French Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly told reporters after a signing ceremony with his counterparts from the other two countries.

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