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UK, Italy & Japan consider expanding global combat air programme

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UK, Italy & Japan consider expanding global combat air programme
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Airbus A380 | Airbus

The United Kingdom, Japan, and Italy are considering expanding their Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to include additional countries. This was discussed during a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Brazil. The GCAP aims to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet known as Tempest, which is expected to feature advanced technologies such as lasers and a 'wearable cockpit.' Unlike the US Air Force's NGAD program, GCAP focuses solely on the development of a manned fighter jet.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. They explored the possibility of expanding the GCAP project to involve other nations. In a joint statement, they emphasized "the importance of the project continuing to move forward expeditiously," reaffirming their commitment to realizing the fighter jet by 2035. Keir Starmer expressed an "ambition to widen participation to a broader range of international partners in the future."

Recently, Italy joined Japan and Britain in ratifying the GCAP treaty, establishing the GCAP International Government Organization (GIGO), which will define aircraft capability requirements and oversee industrial constructs.

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While no specific countries were mentioned for potential inclusion in GCAP, Sweden had previously been part of the program but has since withdrawn. Saudi Arabia has shown interest in joining. Reports indicate that Germany might abandon its FCAS project with France due to disagreements but remains committed for now.

With a tri-national agreement signed, GCAP is set to enter its full development phase by 2025. A joint venture agreement is expected soon to establish a company responsible for delivering the project.

The primary contractors involved are Britain's BAE Systems, Italy's Leonardo, and Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Additional agreements are being formed with companies like Mitsubishi Electric, Leonardo U.K., Rolls-Royce, Avio Aero, MBDA UK among others.

The fighter jet is intended to replace British Typhoon Eurofighters and Japan's F-2 fighters.

Justin Bronks from Rusi highlighted challenges faced by countries outside of China and the USA in developing such advanced jets due to high costs and complexity. He noted that even established programs like the F-35 continue to require significant investment for maturation.

Organizations Included in this History
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