GCAP programme 'well positioned' to develop 6th-generation fighter by 2035
The primary focus in the next few years will be on getting delivery structures set up for GCAP so the partners can draft a development contract in 2025 on a fully joint international basis. (Photo: UK Crown Copyright)
At the end of last year, the UK, Japan and Italy announced a new partnership under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to field a next-generation fighter jet by 2035.
The programme will see work on the UK-led Tempest Future Combat Air System (FCAS), and Japan's F-X future fighter programme come together.
Shephard was invited to a RUSI-hosted panel involving key UK stakeholders from both government and industry to expand on the statement for the first time.
Though Japan’s entry into the partnership was only announced a little over a month ago, the UK MoD said the three nations have
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