UK denies Saudi participation in 6th-generation fighter programme
It is possible for the KSA to join the UK programmes ultimately, although this is likely to be only on at a subsystem level. (Image: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
The UK has categorically stated that the agreement signed between the two countries is unrelated to FCAS or the Global Combat Air Programme despite Saudi announcements.
On 1 March, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) said it would be joining the UK-led Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme, but the UK said no agreement exists between the two that is related to FCAS or the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) effort.
In a Tweet, KSA Minister of Defence Khalid bin Salman said his country and the UK had ‘signed a declaration of KSA’s intent to participate in the FCAS, which will strengthen KSA’s defensive capabilities through a comprehensive partnership that includes joint production and R&D projects for future air systems’.
Things became confusing when the
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![SOF Week 2026: DroneShield moves to double its production capacity in the US]()
SOF Week 2026: DroneShield moves to double its production capacity in the US
The DroneShield US subsidiary is rapidly expanding its manufacturing footprint in the country and has expedited the process to double its domestic production capacity in at least four months.
-
![Next-generation tactical UAS: Advancing European defence capabilities]()
Next-generation tactical UAS: Advancing European defence capabilities
As Europe confronts its most unstable security environment since the Cold War, defence planners recognise that advanced, dependable and flexible Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) are central to a force that competes and prevails on today’s battlefield.
-
![Indonesia strengthens Turkish defence ties with Kizilelma drone order]()
Indonesia strengthens Turkish defence ties with Kizilelma drone order
Indonesia’s purchase of 12 drones with options for an additional 48 is the third deal in as many years between Indonesian and Turkish defence industries, bolstering the former’s plans to strengthen its own domestic production and defence industry.
