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
-
What lessons could Europe learn from air power use in Ukraine?
The use of air power by both sides in the ongoing conflict has been extensively focused on, influencing policy and procurement around the world. But are the lessons from the front line universally applicable, or should other nations be planning for very different scenarios?
-
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.
-
Spain earmarks $1.6 billion for Hurjet trainer aircraft acquisition
Spain’s Defence Minister told the Senate Defense Commission on 27 June of the decision to acquire Turkish Aerospace Industries’ (TAI) trainers as the country seeks to replace its Northrop F-5M aircraft.
-
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.