The head of Airbus’ defence and space division, Michael Schöllhorn, has issued a stark warning to the European defence industry, urging a fundamental shift in strategic planning amidst escalating geopolitical tensions. In an interview with the Süddeutsche Zeitung, Schöllhorn called for a return to Cold War-era stockpiling practices, emphasizing the need to secure critical raw materials and components “even if it costs money.
The call highlights a growing anxiety over Europe’s vulnerability within global supply chains. A significant portion of industrial inputs, from essential materials to semiconductors, originate from China and Taiwan, respectively. While Schöllhorn acknowledged the industry has taken steps to mitigate these risks since 2021, he stressed that current preparedness remains inadequate, particularly given the potential for abrupt disruption. The implicit question and his acknowledgement, is a sobering assessment of how long European manufacturing could sustain operations if these vital supply lines were severed.
Schöllhorn’s commentary extended beyond mere supply chain resilience; he articulated a profound urgency regarding the speed of response in any future armed conflict. “The goal must be to win a war as quickly as possible, not least in order to minimize the suffering of a population” he stated. A protracted conflict, lasting five years or more, is deemed unsustainable and beyond Europe’s present capacity to endure. This reveals a growing concern that existing defence strategies lack the agility and resource availability necessary for rapid and decisive action.
The interview also touched on the increasingly strained relationship surrounding the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) initiative, a joint project between Airbus and Dassault Aviation. Schöllhorn expressed concern that Dassault’s potential desire to pursue a separate fighter aircraft program could undermine the existing framework of FCAS. He maintained Airbus’ commitment to the agreed terms, but cautioned that diverging ambitions risk rendering the collaborative effort obsolete. While arguing that a networked air combat system remains a strategic imperative, Schöllhorn implicitly suggested that alternative arrangements may be required if France deviates from the established path.
Beyond the specific FCAS situation, the remarks served as a broader critique of Europe’s reliance on external defence suppliers. “Europe has more countries” Schöllhorn noted, referencing Poland’s continued preference for American systems and Sweden’s history of pursuing independent solutions. He delivered a pointed warning, underscoring that the current security landscape allows for no protracted development timelines. “We cannot waste time” he asserted.
Finally, Schöllhorn strongly defended the proposed consolidation of satellite divisions within Airbus, Leonardo and Thales. He characterized this move as “vital for the survival” of Europe’s space industry and crucial for maintaining both defence capabilities and economic prosperity. He dismissed the viability of national approaches, emphasizing the intensifying competition from American and Chinese companies. The call for consolidation underscores a fear that fragmentation will ultimately doom Europe’s ability to compete in the increasingly globalized and competitive aerospace sector.