BAE Systems stresses risk attached to securing F-3 contract with Japan
Concept art of Japan's F-X/F-3 fighter jet. (Image: Japan MoD)
Combat air industrial ties between the UK and Japan are set to deepen, but BAE Systems is taking nothing for granted where F-3 programme developments are concerned.
Amid reports that the UK and Japan are to formally agree on jointly developing a next-generation fighter jet under the F-3/F-X programme, BAE Systems has suggested an element of risk will remain until a contract has been signed.
The cautious approach from the manufacturer arrives in the wake of Lockheed Martin appearing to be ousted from the fighter project.
BAE Systems seems close to replacing its competitor, with the company expected to be offered a research and design contract alongside Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to build a next-generation fighter to succeed Japan’s outgoing F-2 aircraft.
The new industry partnership is set
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production]()
Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production
The takeover of the Italian firm by Baykar solidifies the company’s efforts to forge closer ties with Italian industry, bolsters its partnership with Leonardo to produce UAVs and secures its foothold in Europe.
-
![Leonardo’s Proteus structural tests “nearing completion” ahead of first flight]()
Leonardo’s Proteus structural tests “nearing completion” ahead of first flight
The company has tested over 15 mission sets for the drone, with the rotorcraft used to demonstrate the viability of armed forces utilising large uncrewed aerial systems’ (UAS) for autonomous missions in the future.
-
![Interview: Edge Group eyes Indonesian market for naval and UAV expansion]()
Interview: Edge Group eyes Indonesian market for naval and UAV expansion
The UAE’s Edge Group has been positioning itself as a key defence and technology partner to Indonesia, where it has been focusing on naval platforms, UAVs and long-term industrial collaboration.
