Archive · 20 Jul 2026
GCAP Fighter Jet Timeline Unaffected by New Partners
The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is a project to create a new, advanced fighter jet.
Three countries—Britain, Italy, and Japan—are working together on this project, with a goal to have the jet ready by 2035.
The leaders of this project say that even if more countries join, the timeline won't change.
Japan is especially eager to meet this deadline because it needs to replace its old fighter jets.
Other countries like Canada, Germany, and Saudi Arabia are interested in joining.
The project is being managed by companies from the three main countries, and they have already secured a big contract to fund the development.
The focus right now is on finishing the initial planning phase by the end of 2027.
The GCAP fighter jet programme aims to have the jet in service by 2035, with the concept assessment phase due by the end of 2027.
Current partners are Britain, Italy, and Japan, with potential new partners including Canada, Germany, and Saudi Arabia.
The timeline will not change even if new countries join the programme, according to the joint venture's CEO.
Japan is particularly anxious to maintain the 2035 target due to the retirement of its F-2 fighters.
The £4.6 billion ($6.19 billion) contract for the programme was secured earlier in July, with the joint venture owned by BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement.
- Who
- British, Italian, and Japanese governments, along with potential new partners like Canada, Germany, and Saudi Arabia
- What
- Development of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) fighter jet
- When
- Target service year is 2035; concept assessment phase due by end of 2027
- Where
- Joint venture involving Britain, Italy, and Japan, with potential for new partners to join
- Why
- To maintain military capabilities and security, especially in light of China's military expansion, and to share costs and expertise
- Programme Name
- Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)
- Current Partners
- Britain, Italy, Japan
- Target Service Year
- 2035
- Current Phase
- Concept assessment (due by end of 2027)
- Contract Value
- £4.6 billion ($6.19 billion)
- Potential New Partners
- Canada, Germany, Saudi Arabia
- Joint Venture Companies
- BAE Systems, Leonardo, Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement