Rolls-Royce and Snecma (Safran) have welcomed the decision by the Governments of the UK and France to support further studies into the next generation of UK and French combat aircraft engines.

The two companies will continue to work on this programme through their 50:50 Rolls-Royce Snecma Ltd joint venture, established in 2001. Rolls-Royce and Snecma will continue to explore propulsion system concepts and technologies as part of the Anglo French Future Combat Air Systems (FCAS) Demonstration Programme Preparation Phase contract.

Since the announcement of the studies in July 2012, Rolls-Royce and Snecma have agreed workshare on the programme based on the relative technological strengths of each company. Studies have focused on developing engine technologies that will be required to power the FCAS demonstrator and generate significant electrical power for the aircraft's sensors and systems.

Bob Stoddart, Rolls-Royce President, Customer Business - Defence, said: "We welcome the support of the Governments of the UK and France in this programme at a time where budgets are challenged. Continuing this programme will enable us to further develop and retain critical defence propulsion system technologies that will sustain leading edge operational capability in the UK and France."

Didier Desnoyer, Snecma Vice President and General Manager, Military Engines, said: "We are pleased that our two governments have confirmed the continuation of this programme. Our teams are focused on delivering the highest capabilities from France and UK in Defense Propulsion Domain and meeting the challenging expectations of this programme both on technical aspects and affordability."