Airbus backs split solution for faltering FCAS fighter programme

PARIS, Feb 19 (Reuters) - Airbus AIR.PA would support a two-fightersolution for Europe's faltering FCAS fighter programme if governments request it, Chief Executive Guillaume Faury said on Thursday.

The comments during a results presentation follow a dispute between Airbus, which represents Germany and Spain, and French partner Dassault Aviation AM.PA over leadership of the core warplane component of a planned system of fighters and drones.

The plans to replace Eurofighter and Rafale jets have been beset by rivalries over the extent to which Dassault should control the core fighter component, or pillar, prompting speculation that the project could be split into two parts.

"We believe that the deadlock of a single pillar should not jeopardise the entire future of this high-tech European capability, which will bolster our collective defence," Faury told analysts.

"If mandated by our customers, we would support a two- fighter solution and are committed to playing a leading role."

Two sources have told Reuters that Germany is considering ordering more U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets because Germany and France are deadlocked on their Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme.