**Germany Should Reduce Dependence on US Defense Manufacturers, Airbus CEO Warns**
The CEO of Airbus Defense and Space, Michael Schollhorn, has called on Germany to reduce its dependence on US defense manufacturers. In an interview with Augsburger Allgemeine, published on March 7, Schollhorn warned that Germany’s reliance on US-made products could lead to a loss of control over its own defense capabilities.
Schollhorn emphasized that Berlin should prioritize European defense companies, especially since Germany’s likely next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has announced plans to raise hundreds of billions of euros for defense and infrastructure. “If we continue to buy off-the-shelf products from the United States with this higher defense spending, we are cementing our dependence on others,” Schollhorn said.
**Denmark’s F-35 Purchase Questioned**
Schollhorn also questioned Denmark’s decision to purchase US-made F-35 fighter jets, suggesting that it may not be the best choice for defending Greenland. “If they actually had to defend Greenland, they might realize that purchasing U.S.-made F-35s was a questionable decision,” Schollhorn said.
**Europe Should Collaborate on Defense**
Schollhorn argued that Europe’s defense industries must collaborate more closely instead of competing individually. “We need not only an increase in defense spending at the national level but also a coordinated approach among key European countries,” he said.
**US Foreign Policy Scrutinized**
The comments come amid growing scrutiny of US President Donald Trump’s foreign policy, including his interest in acquiring Greenland through purchase or force. Trump has also cast doubt on Washington’s commitment to defending its NATO partners and suggested that Europe should take responsibility for Ukraine’s security.
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