“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
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
-
![Airbus unveils expansion of uncrewed portfolio with new CCA and helicopter platforms]()
Airbus unveils expansion of uncrewed portfolio with new CCA and helicopter platforms
The manufacturer is betting heavily on the demand for uncrewed systems, revealing the uncrewed H145M – known as the U145 – and the U760 Ravenstorm at ILA Berlin 2026 as the two latest additions to its expanding UAV offering.
-
![FCAS future fighter jet collapse: where does Europe’s next-generation air power go next?]()
FCAS future fighter jet collapse: where does Europe’s next-generation air power go next?
While the New Generation Fighter pillar of the Franco-German-Spanish programme is now officially dead in the water, Germany’s ambition to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet remains – with the country serving as a financially attractive potential partner for other programmes.
-
![France air focus: Lower-cost sovereign capabilities propel $11.38 billion UAV market]()
France air focus: Lower-cost sovereign capabilities propel $11.38 billion UAV market
France is estimated to be Europe’s second-highest spender on UAVs, with a market focused on domestic production, loitering munitions and lower-cost sovereign systems. Its spending profile highlights substantial future market opportunities while reflecting broader industry trends.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Helicopters and CUAS set to dominate as Europe advances rearmament efforts]()
Eurosatory 2026: Helicopters and CUAS set to dominate as Europe advances rearmament efforts
The biennial show in Paris will focus heavily on autonomous technology, counter-drone solutions and helicopters, as countries ramp up defence budgets and focus on modernising defence capabilities.
