Airbus urges Germany to favour European aircraft over F-35

The European company Airbus has called on the German government to take a leading role in the production of military aircraft, criticising its dependence on US defence systems.

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Thomas Pretzl, chairman of the Airbus works council, warned against political dependence on the United States and called on Berlin to give priority to European-made aircraft.

Speaking at a staff meeting in Manning, he stressed the geopolitical risks and called for the cancellation of orders for American fighters, including the F-35. In his view, Germany should favour proven European alternatives, such as the Eurofighter and A400M, while expanding production capacity for future defence needs.

Pretzl also emphasised the need to use future defence investments to consolidate Germany's leadership in the industry. He noted that with the retirement of 85 Tornado fighter jets, the country is facing important decisions on the development of its air force and European programmes, including the sixth-generation FCAS and GCAP combat aircraft projects.

These next-generation systems are expected to be ready no earlier than 2040, but Pretzl believes this is insufficient given current security challenges. He called for a more ambitious European approach to military readiness.

In addition, Pretzl criticised Airbus management for cost-cutting, layoffs and planned organisational changes. In his opinion, such steps contradict the company's ambition to lead Europe's military aerospace sector in the face of changes in global security.

Source: Defence Industry Europe