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The UK has revealed a new design for its supersonic fighter, the Tempest, which is part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The announcement includes that 60% of the components have entered initial manufacturing. This development marks the first supersonic air superiority fighter designed in the UK in four decades.
The GCAP involves collaboration between the UK, Italy, and Japan, with major industry partners like BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and MBDA UK contributing to its development. The project utilizes advanced technologies such as digital manufacturing and stealth compatibility to enhance and de-risk this sixth-generation combat aircraft.
BAE Systems’ sites in Lancashire are leading the production using innovative robotic and digital methods to create key parts of the aircraft. Test pilots from organizations including the Royal Air Force have already logged over 300 hours of flight time in the Combat Air Flying Demonstrator to evaluate performance aspects.
