Dysfunctional European Defense Sector Hits Industrial Roadblocks

A remotely controlled aircraft armed with the latest tactical missiles hovers near Europe’s borders with Russia, scanning the landscape for potential targets. Its stealth and artificial intelligence embody a vision of self-reliant European defense — one that doesn’t lean on US firepower.

At least, that’s the idea. In reality, the Future Combat Air System — including the Eurodrone and a next-generation fighter jet — have become symbols of European defense dysfunction. While Russia has fully transitioned to a war economy, Europe’s projects remain bogged down by infighting. France wants a lightweight Eurodrone for African missions; Germany insists on a second ...