Britain may build new fighter jet with Swedes after German and French snub

BRITAIN could team up with Sweden to build a new fighter jet after being snubbed by France and Germany.

British officials have held preliminary talks with the Swedes and the Ministry of Defence is next week expected to outline plans to start developing a warplane to replace the Typhoon.

Sweden, which is in the EU, has shown interest in collaborating and would be a natural partner through its defence manufacturer Saab, according to the Financial Times. Sources stressed that the UK has spoken to several countries about the project. Japan and South Korea are also potential partners.

France and Germany shocked British defence firms last July when they announced plans to develop a new European fighter jet without the UK.

British officials are keen to ensure the RAF has the aircraft it needs and that manufacturers retains the skills and capability to make fighter jets.

Currently the UK is working with the US to build the F-35 fighter and with Germany, Italy and Spain on the Eurofighter Typhoon.

The UK’s main defence contractor, BAE Systems, works on the planes in Warton and Samlesbury in Lancashire.

Last October the company announced plans to axe almost 2,000 jobs, mostly in Warton, amid sluggish orders.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: ‘We are monitoring the early stages of a range of programmes, and are involved in discussions with a range of international partners.’

A BAE spokesman said: ‘We welcome debate about the need for next generation combat air systems across many nations. We have a strong history of collaboration with other nations and continue to invest in technologies so we can develop future aircraft.’