Only four of Germany’s 128 Eurofighter aircraft are operational and ready for combat in the event of a crisis, it was claimed yesterday (WED), in revelations that will deepen pressure on Germany to live up to its defence commitments.

The remaining aircraft have been grounded by technical problems and a shortage of combat missiles, according to a report in Spiegel magazine.

The alleged problems would leave Germany unable to fulfil its Nato commitments and could weaken the alliance’s air capabilities.

The news came as it emerged that France will sign a deal for a 10-member ‘coalition of the willing’ in June to unite countries with the both the military will and the means to act in Africa.

The coalition will include the UK after Brexit in a move which potentially undermines German desires to reboot European defence under the auspices of the European Union, with EU diplomatic sources confirming that Germany had only reluctantly accepted the initiative.

On Wednesday the German defence ministry confirmed that some of its Eurofighters have are affected by technical issues but said details of how many aircraft remain operational are “classified”.