UK, Italy and Japan tie the knot with joint fighter project
A rendering of the Global Combat Air System future fighter jet flying over Japanese skies. (Image: BAE Systems)
The UK, Japan and Italy have announced a new partnership under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to develop a trilateral next-generation fighter jet.
The announcement follows joint-concept studies by Rome, London and Tokyo launched during this year's Farnborough Air Show in July.
The deal sees work on the UK-led Tempest Future Combat Air System (FCAS), and Japan's F-X future fighter programme come together.
The GCAP project will have no lead nation or company overall. The programme will be of equal partnership with BAE Systems heading development on behalf of the UK, Leonardo for Italy and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for Japan.
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
India fast-tracks helicopter procurement with dual RFIs for 276 platforms
India has issued urgent RFIs for more than 270 reconnaissance, surveillance and utility helicopters across its services, signalling a systemic overhaul of rotary-wing capabilities with a renewed emphasis on indigenous production and technology transfer.
-
US combat drone plan rushes forward with first flight and selection in FY2026
The US Department of Defence (DoD) previously selected Anduril Industries and General Atomics to develop production-representative prototypes under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme. A competitive Increment 1 production decision is expected in FY2026.
-
How can you own the sky?
With an unparalleled range of solutions, RTX is equipping pilots with a distinct advantage, before the mission even begins.
-
DSEI 2025: Saab unveils new CUAS missile solution to defeat UAS swarms
The Nimbrix missile has been developed and tested over the last year and is Saab’s latest cost-effective answer to help armed forces counteract escalating numbers of uncrewed aerial threats on the battlefield.