France, Germany sign contract to develop fighter jet prototype

France and Germany signed a 150 million euro ($161.84 million) deal on Thursday to develop a prototype of the next generation fighter jet, a project seen as vital for Europe to defend itself without relying on allies in an increasingly uncertain world. Dassault Aviation and Airbus will build the aircraft, which is expected to be operational from 2040 with a view to replacing Dassault's Rafale and Germany's Eurofighter warplanes over time. "This is a very ambitious project between France, Germany and joined by Spain," French Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly told reporters after a signing ceremony with his counterparts from the other two countries.
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