Airframer Issues RFIs to German Industry
Boeing has issued Requests for Information to “more than 10” German firms, as the company looks to strengthen the case for the country to buy F/A-18s to replace its ageing Tornado fighters.
A mixed buy of F/A-18 Super Hornets and EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft had been the preferred solution to Germany’s future air force requirement, but no deal has been signed and, following last year’s election, the country is reassessing its defence procurement. The country appears to require its next fighter to enable it to meet existing and emerging NATO commitments, to carry the B61 nuclear weapon currently fielded on Tornado, and to not disrupt plans currently in train with France to build a Future Combat Air System. France has suggested Germany could be pushed out of that programme if it selected the F-35 as its next fighter, yet that platform appears to be being reconsidered after being rejected by the previous administration.
Boeing says that in-country sustainment of a future F/A-18 and EA-18G fleet will be worth approximately €3.5billion ($4billion) over the life of the platforms. The company says the Super Hornet has the “lowest operating costs of all US tactical aircraft in production” – an apparent dig at the F-35 – which it places at €17,000 ($19,500) per flying hour.
“Germany is home to outstanding aerospace expertise and innovation, and we look forward to expanding our partnerships locally for Germany’s F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler fleet,” commented Dr Michael Haidinger, President of Boeing Germany. “With this partner expansion strategy, we are laying the foundation for new business opportunities for German industry champions, high-skilled new jobs and long-term economic growth.”
A final decision is expected early this year.
