Involved with the FCAS (Future Combat Air System) programme, Safran Aircraft Engines and MTU Aero Engines have formalised their partnership to develop the engine for the next-generation European fighter aircraft NGF. This follows the Letter Of Intent (LOI) signed between the two companies in February 2019, which specifies that Safran will take the lead in engine design and integration, while MTU Aero Engines will lead the engine services. In the framework of the contractual scheme defined by France and Germany, Safran Aircraft Engines will be the prime contractor and MTU Aero Engines main partner for the first phase of Research and Technology (Phase 1A). The two partners also agreed on the foundation of a 50/50 joint venture that will be incorporated by the end of 2021 to manage the development, the production and the after-sales support activities of the new engine.