One and done? (Opinion)
Europe’s two competing sixth-generation fighter programmes, FCAS and Tempest, could merge. (Photo: Tim Martin)
The future of Europe’s two sixth-generation fighter programmes seems uncertain as limits on resources suggests only one can succeed. However, while the decision remains unmade, industry continues to develop both.
The question of money has once again reared its ugly head with a rare and frank prediction from Gen Luca Goretti, Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force, to an Italian defence committee on Europe’s two competing sixth-generation fighter programmes.
Goretti predicted the two programmes would merge as it would be ‘unthinkable’ for ‘huge financial resources’ to be poured into both the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) and Tempest.
The prediction breaks from the trend of senior figures involved in FCAS and Tempest sidestepping the issue of whether two European fighter efforts are sustainable. Even so, there are
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics]()
How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics
Defence industry primes are working on an array of different platforms to meet the growing need for rotary uncrewed aerial vehicles to carry out future logistics missions.
-
![Eastern European helicopter modernisation could open doors for Western manufacturers]()
Eastern European helicopter modernisation could open doors for Western manufacturers
With some Eastern European countries already upgrading their helicopter fleets to incorporate Western technology, the region presents potential future opportunities for defence companies.
-
![UK E-7 Wedgetail delay down to a “technology issue”, as MoD grapples with slipping timelines]()
UK E-7 Wedgetail delay down to a “technology issue”, as MoD grapples with slipping timelines
The first of three E-7 Wedgetail aircraft, originally ordered in 2019, is now expected to be delivered to the RAF this year after multiple “difficulties”.
-
![Forecast $21.9 billion light attack and trainer opportunities up for grabs as Leonardo lines up M-346]()
Forecast $21.9 billion light attack and trainer opportunities up for grabs as Leonardo lines up M-346
The M-346 stands as a potential contender for various countries facing impending capability gaps due to ageing trainer aircraft, while it could also be selected as a cost-effective light fighter aircraft.
-
![US Air Force seeks capabilities to improve C3 for aircraft fleet and warfighters]()
US Air Force seeks capabilities to improve C3 for aircraft fleet and warfighters
The USAF published RFIs for enhancing its C3 capabilities after losing, in Operation Epic Fury, four aircraft in non-confrontational, unclear situations that could have been related to command, control and communication failures.
