Deadline Date: September 29, 2026
The European Commission is funding a new initiative with a total budget of €110 million to develop a future multirole light aircraft aimed at modernizing Europe’s ageing tactical fleet, with an indicative budget of €15 million allocated under the EDF-2026-RA call.
The focus areas of this initiative include developing a low-cost, single-engine turboprop aircraft capable of operating across diverse operational environments, providing direct air support, ground targeting, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance with combat elements, and coordinating air strikes with air traffic control support in forward positions during counter-terrorism missions. Additional objectives emphasize light attack roles, anti-drone interception, close air support, and adaptability to civil security tasks such as search and rescue, border surveillance, and natural disaster relief.
The future multirole light aircraft (FMLA) program aims to avoid duplication or fragmentation of existing turboprop and tactical transport systems while leveraging current European platforms, technologies, and innovations. By doing so, it intends to reduce development risks while ensuring effective air-to-ground operational capabilities. The aircraft is envisioned as a versatile, cost-efficient solution suitable for low-intensity conflicts, armed reconnaissance, and counterinsurgency missions, equipped with precision-guided munitions.
This project addresses the strategic gap in Europe’s light multirole aircraft sector, which currently relies on platforms that are 30-40 years old. The FMLA will offer enhanced operational flexibility, lower operating costs, and rapid adaptability to emerging mission requirements. In addition to its core military roles, the aircraft can be converted for civil security missions, providing value beyond traditional combat scenarios.
Eligible participants for this program include legal public or private entities established in EU Member States, associated countries under the European Defence Fund (EDF), and countries within the European Economic Area. All participants must maintain executive management within eligible countries and comply with rules regarding third-country control.
The FMLA initiative represents a significant step toward modernizing Europe’s tactical aviation capabilities by 2035-2040, promoting cooperative development among EDF Member States and associated countries while contributing to defence technology objectives outlined in the STEP Regulation.
For more information, visit EC.
