The failure of the Franco-German defense project has caused immense damage. It is unlikely that Germany and France could now develop a sixth-generation fighter jet on their own. One possible alternative would be to join the UK-led GCAP project. However, this project is already well underway, so it remains to be seen whether joining at a later stage is even possible, according to Weber.
Weber cites the French defense contractor Dassault as the main cause of the failure. Contrary to the original agreements, Dassault had sought a stronger leadership role for France within the project. The resulting conflict ultimately became politically irreconcilable.
The lost time is particularly critical in light of what he sees as the increasing unreliability of the American nuclear umbrella. Therefore, he argues, it is urgently necessary to engage in a joint debate with France on nuclear deterrence and security guarantees. However, German policymakers have so far refused to engage in this discussion.