Move comes as Dassault and Airbus clash over leadership of European combat aircraft program

Lisbon has also held talks with Saab and Dassault after doubts over NATO commitment under Trump

Kyiv expects further transfers as talks continue on AASM Hammer bombs and SCALP-EG cruise missiles

Airbus signals openness to two-fighter approach while Berlin reassesses sixth-generation ambitions

Chancellor Friedrich Merz raises doubts over cost and relevance of crewed aircraft amid industrial tensions between Dassault and Airbus

Proposals worth $40 billion still require final government approval and contract signature

French president says project remains strategically necessary despite industrial deadlock

Potential deal would mark shift away from Russian aircraft and add new dimension to Southeast Asian airpower

Kyiv says talks with Paris include additional fighters already in service and new interceptor missile deliveries

Aircraft are part of Indonesia’s $8 billion deal for up to 42 Rafales