Future Combat Air System (FCAS)

under development with delays and disputes

Europe's Future Combat Air System (FCAS) is a next-generation air combat network designed to replace current fighter fleets with a connected system of stealth aircraft, drones, sensors, and battlefield data networks. Led by France, Germany, and Spain, it aims to enter service around 2040 and maintain Europe's strategic autonomy in advanced military aviation. The system integrates crewed aircraft, autonomous drones called Remote Carriers, advanced sensors, electronic warfare capabilities, and a digital combat cloud for real-time platform connectivity. The New Generation Fighter (NGF), a sixth-generation stealth combat aircraft, is the core of the system, expected to replace France's Rafale and parts of the Eurofighter fleets. The project also includes next-generation engines, sensors, stealth technologies, and advanced communications systems.