FCAS Dispute Highlights Structural Challenges in European Defense Cooperation

The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project, conceived as Europe’s next-generation fighter jet, represents more than an industrial program: it is a test of the continent’s ability to cooperate strategically in high-end defense technologies. Envisioned to replace Rafale and Eurofighter aircraft starting in 2040, FCAS is intended to consolidate Europe’s a…