France and Germany have agreed to give Spain the worst news: one in which the F-35 and its "button" are the winners

Europe's pursuit of digital sovereignty faces significant hurdles, as demonstrated by the ongoing challenges within the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project. This initiative, a cornerstone of European strategic autonomy in defense technology, highlights the complexities of achieving independence when critical systems rely on external suppliers and decision-making processes. The project's struggles underscore the broader debate within the EU regarding the true extent of its technological self-reliance. The FCAS program, a joint venture involving France, Germany, and Spain, aims to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet integrated with drone swarms and a real-time combat cloud. Conceived to replace existing aircraft like the Rafale and Eurofighter, it represents a strategic effort to regain industrial knowledge in advanced aviation and ensure Europe is not outpaced in the 21st-century air combat landscape. This ambitious undertaking is viewed not merely as an aircraft development but as a tangible promise of technological independence from the United States. Despite its grand ambitions, the FCAS project is reportedly experiencing internal friction, particularly concerning the equitable distribution of power and decision-making among its key European partners. These internal divisions and disagreements are causing delays and raising questions about the project's future viability. Such difficulties are indicative of a recurring challenge in European technological initiatives: translating strategic goals into concrete, collaborative action that truly empowers European industries and secures digital autonomy.