“We need GCAP” to face evolving threats says RAF chief
The aim of the Global Air Combat programme is to introduce a new sixth-generation aircraft, ‘Tempest’, into service by 2035. (Photo: BAE Systems)
The UK Royal Air Force’s (RAF’s) chief of the air staff discussed the current state of the RAF and its need to be “match fit” for a changing warfare threat.
Air Chief Marshall Sir Richard Knighton, chief of the air staff for the RAF, has reemphasised the importance of next-generation capabilities as part of the RAF’s operational priorities to ensure air superiority, improve deterrence and evolve to meet growing threats.
The “proliferation of stealth capabilities” from adversaries including the Chinese J-20 fighter, the Russian Su-57 and low-grade air weapons, Knighton said, mean that “[the RAF] needs to be planning for the next generation capabilities. That’s why we need GCAP”.
Speaking during the Royal United Services Institute’s (RUSI’s) Lord Trenchard Memorial lecture on 11 November on the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) current and
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Air Warfare
-
![Poland signs for MQ-9B SkyGuardian]()
Poland signs for MQ-9B SkyGuardian
The uncrewed aerial system (UAS) will replace the currently leased MQ-9A from 2027.
-
![Data Link Solutions awarded a deal worth up to $1 billion for tactical radio systems]()
Data Link Solutions awarded a deal worth up to $1 billion for tactical radio systems
The deal announced on 11 December was an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) contract and the first task order of $116 million has already been awarded to provide terminals and spares, with follow-on production awards expected.
-
![Elbit to deliver EW self-protection suites for a European country’s C-390 and H225M aircraft]()
Elbit to deliver EW self-protection suites for a European country’s C-390 and H225M aircraft
The system to be installed includes a digital radar warning receiver, infra-red missile warning system, laser warning system, countermeasure dispenser system and DIRCM (Directed Infrared Countermeasure) system.
