The United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan will begin developing a sixth-generation fighter jet through the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
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In an announcement made on Monday (7th), the countries confirmed a new joint headquarters in Reading, England, and a goal to finalize a major international contract by the end of 2025.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey, Japanese Defence Minister Nakatani Gen, and Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto celebrated recent progress in the program following a joint meeting.
The announcement also highlighted the recent unveiling of Edgewing, a new joint venture between the UK’s BAE Systems, Italy’s Leonardo, and Japan’s Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd.
Edgewing will act as the industrial lead for GCAP, supporting the development of the sixth-generation platform, which is expected to enter service by the mid-2030s.
According to the statement, the three governments hope to finalize the first formal international contract between the GCAP International Government Organization (GIGO) and Edgewing by the end of this year.
Photo and video: Edgewing. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
