Dassault CEO Voices Frustration Over Fighter Talks With Airbus: Report

Dassault Aviation SA DUAVF expressed frustration over a dispute with partner Airbus SE EADSY about the next phase of work on the European Future Combat Air System (FCAS) fighter project and stated that it was important to establish clear leadership, reported Reuters.
FCAS is designed to replace the Eurofighter and Dassault's Rafale with a combination of manned and unmanned aircraft from 2040.
"I accept to be leader if I have the leverage to be leader," the report quoted Dassault's Chief Executive Eric Trappier, referring to Dassault's responsibility for the core fighter element of the design.
The report added that Dassault and Airbus have been at odds over responsibility for flight controls.
"We have made enough efforts," Trappier said, adding talks had been 'difficult' in the face of new demands since September.
Defence analysts speculate that differences over FCAS could sink the project and reshuffle industry alliances.
Dassault Aviation today reported its FY21 results, with adjusted operating income increasing to €527 million from €261 million in 2020 and adjusted net sales of €7.23 billion versus €5.49 billion the previous year.
The company expects to deliver 13 Rafale and 35 Falcon jets in 2022. It anticipates net sales to be down compared to 2021.
Price Action: EADSY shares closed at $28.83 on Thursday.