Future Combat Air System FCAS

A system of systems with the NGWS at its core

Collaborative combat

The Future Combat Air System is a key instrument for ensuring European sovereignty in defence and security.

FCAS will be built around a core Next Generation Weapon System (NGWS). In this “system of systems,” piloted New Generation Fighters will work together with Uncrewed Remote Carriers – all connected to other systems in space, in the air, on the ground, at sea and in cyberspace via a data cloud called the “Combat Cloud.” These connected platforms will act as sensors, effectors and C2 nodes, enabling agile decision making and working together within an open, scalable, service oriented architecture that allows the inclusion of future platforms and technologies.

Various national and allied platforms will supplement the NGWS in a collaborative strategy by adding their unique capabilities. Such a system-of-systems approach will enable seamless collaborative combat across domains by leveraging the connected capabilities of pooled platforms.

A new industrial direction: "Team Gen 6"

Following a joint reorientation by the German and French governments, the development of the integrated 6th-generation fighter jet has transitioned to a new, highly effective industrial setup.

Integrating this fighter jet, alongside other current and future crewed and uncrewed platforms, into the System of Systems will form the core of Europe's next-generation air combat capability.

To drive this next phase following the conclusion of FCAS 1B contracts at the end of 2026, national defence and aerospace leaders have aligned into specialised industrial teams. Committed to multinational cooperation, these teams ensure a faster, more effective development loop:

Germany ("Team Gen 6"): Eight leading companies—Airbus Defence and Space, AUTOFLUG, Diehl Defence, HENSOLDT, Liebherr, MBDA Germany, MTU Aero Engines, and Rohde & Schwarz—have joined forces. This partnership combines the critical expertise needed for the development and deployment of the 6th-generation fighter jet.
Spain: Closely intertwined with European partners, the Spanish industry is spearheading a similar initiative collaborating through Airbus Defence and Space, Indra, Grupo Oesia, GMV, ITP, and Sener.

While the development of the overarching "System of Systems" continues as originally planned, this new setup ensures that key technologies (such as AI, low observability, advanced edge computing, engine technologies and precise effectors) are secured within a resilient European supply chain.

FCAS - MUT

A milestone for European high-tech development

Future Combat Air System

FCAS marks a major leap in European defence, aiming for full collaborative combat by 2040. It will integrate enhanced platforms such as the Eurofighter and Rafale, using AI, big data, cryptography, and human-machine interaction.

As new capabilities are introduced, European air forces and navies will adapt operationally while industry will drive technological advancements. This coordinated effort will ensure Europe can meet evolving threats and maintain high-tech defence leadership.

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A phased roll-out from the late 2020s

Future Combat Air System

FCAS capabilities will roll out incrementally, starting with enhanced situational awareness in the late 2020s and progressing to manned-unmanned teaming in the early 2030s. Upgraded fighters such as the Eurofighter will team with first-generation Uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft (UCCA), leading to the full FCAS vision by 2040 with the Next Generation Weapon System. Remote Carriers, launched from aircraft such as the A400M, will support crewed aircraft with a high degree of autonomy, always under human control.

FCAS SIMULATOR

The role of Airbus in FCAS

Future Combat Air System

Airbus is co-leading the overall FCAS programme.The Company is leading the pillars for vehicle development of the Remote Carriers, the Combat Cloud, along with work relating to enhanced low observability.

Furthermore, as a key member of both the German "Team Gen 6" and the Spanish industrial initiatives, Airbus bridges national expertise to deliver this 6th-generation combat architecture. The Company has extensive experience in the management and production of major European defence and space secure communications programmes.

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FCAS is vital for Europe’s future

FCAS is key to ensuring Europe's future independence in defence and security. It will strengthen Europe as a centre of advanced industry and technology beyond the defence sector to potential civilian applications.

The innovations developed within this framework secure highly skilled jobs in the long term and strengthen European supply chains.

The programme is also expected to benefit the economies, labour markets and defence sectors of the participating countries over the coming decades, which could be further boosted by potential export sales to approved military services.

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