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 Unmanned 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 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.

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 Wingman, 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 manned aircraft with a high degree of autonomy, always under human control.

The role of Airbus in FCAS

Future Combat Air System

Airbus is co-leading the overall FCAS programme, in particular the System of a Systems approach, and is the main partner for the New Generation Fighter demonstrator pillar.It is leading the pillars for vehicle development of the Remote Carriers, the Combat Cloud, along with work relating to enhanced low observability.

The company has extensive experience in the management and production of major European defence and space secure communications programmes.

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 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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