UK and France target 2030 for future cruise missile, seek commonality on future fighter weapons
MBDA is working on subsonic and supersonic options for the FCAS/W missile programme. (Photo: MBDA)
The UK and France aim to deliver a new cruise missile in 2030 as part of the MBDA-led Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon (FC/ASW) project.
The two countries made the announcement in a joint leaders’ declaration following a visit to Paris by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Sunak and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed several defence issues, and the two countries also agreed to work together towards future air European air defence capabilities.
Paris and London also agreed to work together to ensure the interoperability of communications and armaments for their respective future fighter jets.
The joint declaration reads: ‘In the field of armament cooperation, France and the United Kingdom will advance key projects to develop their future complex weapons systems.
‘They commit
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![Canada to deepen integration of multi-domain capabilities to strengthen its defences]()
Canada to deepen integration of multi-domain capabilities to strengthen its defences
The Canadian Department of National Defence has created new organisations to manage the procurement and integration of all-domain solutions and allocated US$258.33 million to strengthen production capacities.
-
![US National Security Strategy prioritises advanced military capabilities and national industry]()
US National Security Strategy prioritises advanced military capabilities and national industry
The 2025 NSS has emphasised investment in the US nuclear and air defence inventory and national industry, but it leaves multiple unanswered questions on how the White House will implement this approach.
-
![Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners]()
Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners
While non-EU UK struggles to join the Security Action for Europe initiative, which provides loans for defence programmes, Canada has become the first country outside Europe to get access – and did so for a nominal fee.
-
![NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems]()
NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems
During the latest edition of the NATO DiBaX, the alliance tested multiple capabilities to inform requirements for future efforts.
-
![Leonardo unveils plans for Michelangelo air defence dome]()
Leonardo unveils plans for Michelangelo air defence dome
The new multi-layered defence system will harness AI to neutralise airborne threats and protect Europe from Russian aggression.
