Overview
- Macron called the future European combat aircraft a "good project" and said progress must resume despite French–German industrial frictions.
- He said he will raise the matter again with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
- He warned that a German challenge to the fighter would force France to reconsider the joint tank program.
- Tensions center on workshare, with prime contractor Dassault seeking greater autonomy, a stance that has irritated Germany and Spain.
- German media and industry figures have floated a pivot to the rival GCAP with the UK, Italy and Japan, as Macron ties SCAF to broader EU industrial preference and shared financing.