Airbus Works Council urges Germany to prioritise European aircraft over F-35

Speaking at a staff meeting in Manching, Pretzl highlighted geopolitical risks and urged the German government to cancel existing orders for U.S. fighter jets, including the F-35. He argued that proven European alternatives such as the Eurofighter and A400M should be prioritised, with expanded production capacities to meet future defence needs.

Pretzl emphasised that Germany should use upcoming defence investments to secure its leadership in the industry. He pointed out that, with the planned retirement of 85 Tornado fighter jets, Germany faces critical decisions about its air force capabilities and future European projects like the sixth-generation FCAS and GCAP combat aircraft.

These next-generation systems are not expected to be operational until 2040, a timeline Pretzl sees as inadequate given current security concerns. He called for a more ambitious European approach to ensure military readiness.

Additionally, Pretzl criticised Airbus management for its cost-cutting measures, job reductions, and planned organisational changes. He argued that these steps contradict the company’s stated ambition to lead Europe’s military aerospace sector, particularly in light of the changing global security landscape.