Dassault Aviation, BAE Systems and their industrial partners have won a €150 million ($187.7 million) deal from the French and UK governments for a two-year co-operative study on a new unmanned combat air system (UCAS).

The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) Feasibility Phase study will be the first step towards what could become a full demonstration programme that shapes the future of the combat aerospace in Europe, said a statement.

The study will build the foundations on which a long-term joint programme will be based by focusing on the development of concepts for an operational system, and the maturation of key technologies that will be required for a future operational UCAS.

Following the completion of the study at the end of 2016, work could then commence on a UCAS demonstration development programme that addresses both nations’ future military requirements.

The Feasibility Phase will sustain hundreds of highly skilled jobs at Dassault Aviation and BAE Systems with more jobs sustained by Rolls-Royce, Selex ES, Snecma (Safran), Thales and SME’s involved in the programme, said the statement.

The contract will also support the strategically important military aerospace industries in both nations and is testament to the importance that the French and UK governments place in maintaining a cutting edge, sovereign military air capability, it said.

Eric Trappier, chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, said: “We welcome this new step, which prepares the future of both manned and unmanned combat air systems. It ensures French and British companies to maintain their technological excellence which is vital to their competitiveness in a globalised environment. It mainly shows the commitment of France and Britain in their ambition to remain leading aviation powers.”

Ian King, CEO of BAE Systems, said: “This contract award is a key step in the partnership between our two nations, governments, and industries.  The Feasibility Phase will allow UK and French industry to work closely together and provide a strong foundation for a potential follow-on Future Combat Air System Demonstration programme as well as supporting a number of highly skilled jobs.” - TradeArabia News Service