Saudi Arabia to join UK-led FCAS programme

Saudi Arabia and the UK today signed a memorandum of understanding for Saudi Arabia to join the FCAS (Future Combat Air System) programme.

As part of the participation, Saudi Arabia is looking at joint production and R&D projects for future airborne systems, Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman tweeted.

We have signed a declaration of intent to participate in Saudi Arabia’s Future Combat Aircraft System (FCAS) program, which will strengthen the defense capabilities of the Saudi Armed Forces through a comprehensive partnership that includes joint production and R&D projects. Future wind systems. ”, the tweet said.

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We signed KSA’s Declaration of Intent to participate in the Future Combat Air System Program (FCAS) to strengthen KSA’s defense capabilities through a comprehensive partnership that includes joint production and R&D programs for future aircraft systems. pic.twitter.com/PXTmnBHVcB

– Khalid Bin Salman ???? ?? ????? (@kbsalsaud) March 1, 2023

On behalf of the UK, the agreement was signed by UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace.

The UK-led FCAS project to develop a future jet fighter, also known as the Tempest project, involves Japan and Italy. Companies involved include BAE Systems, Leonardo UK, Rolls-Royce, MBDA UK and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

The FCAS, first announced in 2017 by French President Emmanuel Macron and then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel, is designed to replace the Eurofighter and Dassault Rafale from 2040 with a mix of manned and unmanned aircraft.