Rufo Says France Is Ready to Back FCAS Fighter Jet Project

The French government, represented by Deputy Defense Minister Alice Rufo, has expressed its readiness to support the Franco-German fighter jet project, known as FCAS (Future Combat Air System). This statement comes amid reports suggesting skepticism from the German side regarding the project. Rufo, a close ally of French President Emmanuel Macron, conveyed the French government's commitment to the FCAS initiative during an interview with Bloomberg's Francine Lacqua on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. The FCAS project aims to develop a next-generation combat aircraft to replace the Dassault Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon in service with the French and German air forces. The project has faced various challenges, including political tensions and technical complexities, as it seeks to coordinate the efforts of multiple European countries. Rufo's remarks indicate France's determination to see the FCAS project through, despite the reported doubts from the German side. The project's success is seen as crucial for the future of European defense cooperation and the development of advanced military capabilities.