Airbus has suggested splitting Europe’s future fighter project into two separate aircraft to break a long-running deadlock.
The dispute centres on leadership of the €100bn Future Combat Air System, developed by Germany, France and Spain.
Airbus’s defence division and Dassault Aviation disagree over control of the next-generation jet.
Chief executive Guillaume Faury said a dual-fighter approach could save the wider programme.
He argued the project is vital for Europe’s long-term defence capability.
German chancellor Friedrich Merz recently questioned whether the planned aircraft meets Germany’s needs.
France wants a nuclear-capable jet, while Germany does not.
Governments must soon decide whether to continue the fighter element or focus on drones and the combat cloud.
Airbus reported a 23% rise in annual profit to €5.2bn.
However, supply shortages—especially engines from Pratt & Whitney—forced it to cut production targets for the A320.
The company still plans to increase aircraft deliveries this year despite the delays.
