PARIS — France said it’s fully committed to reaching a “mutually acceptable solution” with Germany and Spain this year on the next phase of the Future Combat Air System, as prospects for the next-generation fighter project remain troubled amid infighting amongst the industrial partners.

France, Germany, Spain and the companies involved are “fully mobilized” to prepare phase 2 of the program, which includes building a demonstrator of the combat aircraft at the heart of the system, the French Armed Forces Ministry said in an emailed statement on Saturday.

France earlier this year asked Germany and Spain to redesign their FCAS cooperation to focus on “strengthening industrial leadership,” in order to meet a deadline for a future fighter to enter into service from 2040 onwards. Dassault

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