Europe Intelligence Brief for Thursday, February 19, 2026

2026-02-19 - 18:53

Covering Feb 19 What matters today 1 Merz questions FCAS fighter, floats more F-35s from US — German chancellor says France and Germany have “different needs” on next-gen jet; France wants nuclear-capable carrier-operable fighter, Germany doesn’t; Berlin exploring 35+ additional F-35A purchases from Lockheed Martin; Airbus CEO Faury offers two-fighter solution; Macron defends programme; FCAS