France and Germany Deepen Talks on Nuclear Defense

France and Germany want to deepen their defense cooperation despite disputes that led to the termination of the joint Future Combat Air System (FCAS) fighter jet program in recent weeks.

At a joint ministerial meeting, the two countries will discuss nuclear deterrence, air and missile defense, long-range weapons and space technologies.

An agreement is also expected on continuing the development of certain parts of the FCAS program, particularly combat aircraft data-link systems.

Berlin also plans to deploy troops to a French nuclear deterrence exercise, following a proposal by President Emmanuel Macron in March to strengthen Europe's role under the French nuclear umbrella.

Both countries also intend to reaffirm their support for IRIS², a European satellite communications network. The talks come as the United States urges Europe to accelerate the strengthening of its own defense capabilities.

(Reuters, mja)