France-Germany defense cooperation under strain as Macron, Merz meet

Published Jul 16, 01:47 PM UTC

France and Germany are holding a joint ministerial retreat to discuss defense cooperation amid significant strain, weeks after industrial rivalries forced the cancellation of the landmark Future Combat Air System (FCAS) fighter jet program. The meetings, part of the Franco-German Defence and Security Council (CFADS), will cover nuclear deterrence, missile defense, long-range strike capabilities, and space cooperation. A French official acknowledged misalignment but emphasized broader cooperation beyond FCAS. Germany is expected to agree to participate in French nuclear exercises. Underlying tensions include differing views on European dependence on US weapons technology, with France advocating for greater sovereignty. The talks also aim to address delays in the next-generation tank project and the Eurodrone program, highlighting Europe's challenges in scaling up defense ambitions.