UK, Italy & Japan consider expanding global combat air programme

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.