UK, Italy and Japan tie the knot with joint fighter project
A rendering of the Global Combat Air System future fighter jet flying over Japanese skies. (Image: BAE Systems)
Japanese involvement is key to the feasibility of the Future Combat Air System, bringing money and industrial might to the table.
The UK, Japan and Italy have announced a new partnership under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to develop a trilateral next-generation fighter jet.
The announcement follows joint-concept studies by Rome, London and Tokyo launched during this year's Farnborough Air Show in July.
The deal sees work on the UK-led Tempest Future Combat Air System (FCAS), and Japan's F-X future fighter programme come together.
The GCAP project will have no lead nation or company overall. The programme will be of equal partnership with BAE Systems heading development on behalf of the UK, Leonardo for Italy and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for Japan.
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Wedgetail rising as the aircraft continues to prove itself and wins fans]()
Wedgetail rising as the aircraft continues to prove itself and wins fans
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) was the lead customer for the E-7 Wedgetail airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft and the platform has been ordered by several countries with platforms ordered by the UK, with the US and NATO also selecting the platform.
-
![Shield AI unveils V-Bat block upgrade]()
Shield AI unveils V-Bat block upgrade
The heavy-fuel engine V-Bat was officially showcased at Sea Air Space, after it was first teased in February 2025.
-
![Czech Republic confirms new Sweden offer on Gripen aircraft lease]()
Czech Republic confirms new Sweden offer on Gripen aircraft lease
The current lease period for the 14 Gripen C/D aircraft flown by the Czech Air Force will come to an end in 2027. This new offer proposes that 12 Gripen aircraft will be leased after 2027.
-
![US Air Force to test Northrop Grumman’s next-gen connectivity capabilities in the CJADC2]()
US Air Force to test Northrop Grumman’s next-gen connectivity capabilities in the CJADC2
NG InSight will be evaluated in support of the USAF Battle Network.
-
![USAF’s VENOM programme advances with modifications and autonomous testing]()
USAF’s VENOM programme advances with modifications and autonomous testing
The first fully modified aircraft is expected to begin testing by the end of 2025, according to the US Air Force.
