Poland Considers Joining Franco-German Tank and Fighter Jet Projects.

Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz has suggested that Poland might join the Franco-German initiatives to develop a European fighter jet and tank. This statement was made during a press conference following his meeting with French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius in Paris on June 24, 2024.
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The EMBT ADT-140, which was presented at Eurosatory 2024, is an idea of what the MGCS could look like in the future. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

While Kosiniak-Kamysz did not directly confirm this intention, his remarks have sparked speculation about Poland's potential involvement in the 'Future Combat Air System' (FCAS) and 'Main Ground Combat System' (MGCS) projects. These projects aim to create a next-generation fighter jet and a new tank to enhance the future capabilities of European armed forces.

Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed his willingness to strengthen ties with France and Germany, emphasizing Poland's interest in collaborating within the 'Weimar Triangle'. This development follows months of speculation and increased cooperation since Donald Tusk's return as Polish Prime Minister.

During the press conference, Kosiniak-Kamysz said, "Regarding extensive weapon systems, at the initiative of France and Germany, I expressed openness today. I am open to our allies in the Weimar Triangle strengthening their ties in all these areas." He also highlighted the importance of closer ties in the defense industry, noting, "We have wasted years where cooperation was not good, and we are now interested in strengthening ties."

Previously, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius had hinted that Poland might participate in the MGCS project during the signing of a memorandum of understanding in April with his French counterpart, Sébastien Lecornu. Pistorius emphasized the importance of including other partners, mentioning Italy and specifically noting the significance of Poland's new government.

The FCAS (Future Combat Air System) project aims to replace the Rafale in France and the Eurofighter Typhoon in Germany. It is also supported by Spain and includes the development of a Next Generation Weapon System (NGWS) composed of next-generation fighters, remotely piloted carriers (drones), and a "combat cloud" for integrating various platforms in cross-domain missions.

This ambitious project is currently in its Phase 1B, with funding of 3.2 billion euros shared between France, Germany, and Spain. Phase 1B includes the development of demonstrators for the next-generation fighter and remote carriers, which are expected to fly for the first time in 2028 or 2029. The final goal is to introduce these new capabilities into the armed forces by 2040, although some experts believe the date could be pushed to 2042-2044 due to technological challenges and internal tensions.

FCAS is distinguished by a "system of systems" approach where various elements collaborate in real-time via the "combat cloud", facilitating coordination between air, land, maritime, and cyber units. This approach aims to ensure operational superiority and Europe's sovereignty in defense.

The MGCS (Main Ground Combat System) project, on the other hand, aims to replace the French Leclerc and German Leopard 2 tanks. After uncertain beginnings, MGCS has recently progressed with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between France and Germany, initiating the technological development phase. Like FCAS, MGCS is expected to see its first operational units around 2040.

These projects are essential for maintaining and strengthening Europe's strategic autonomy in the face of growing threats and the rapid evolution of military technologies.