The Fokker G.I was one of the first examples of the twin-engined heavy fighter concept which had gained popularity during the 1930s. Nicknamed Le Foucher (The Grim Reaper), it was remarkable for being designed in the rare twin boom and pod configuration which would be found in later aircraft like the Fw 189 or the P-38. As a result, this innovative aircraft was quick to attack foreign interest, first by the Spanish Republican government, then Finland, Sweden, and Denmark, some of which acquired license rights to build it (Spanish units were later embargoed and intended to be sent to Estonia). Unfortunately, the German invasion in May 1940 forced the few Dutch and incomplete Spanish examples to fly in combat where most were destroyed in a matter of days. All surviving or unfinished units were eventually taken over by the Luftwaffe as trainers.

Maiden flight of the prototype G.I took place in October 1937 with deliveries beginning the following year. Variants included the G.IA powered by Mercury engines and the G.IB for Spain with a Pratt & Whitney powerplant. In the event no aircraft intended for export was actually delivered.