Published：Jun 30, 16:27Last updated：Jul 4, 09:39

Japan, UK, Italy Extend Fighter Jet Collaboration

Jun. 30, 2026 16:27

Japan, the U.K., and Italy will extend their contract for joint development of a next-generation fighter jet until the end of 2027. The project, delayed by the British government's defense spending plan, aims to create a jet outperforming the U.S. F-35. The agreement was revealed by Nikkei on June 30, 2026. The extension allows the public-private project to ramp up development. The fighter jet is a key part of the three nations' defense collaboration.

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6Media

Jul. 4, 2026 00:31

The UK, Italy, and Japan have signed a £4.6 billion agreement to develop a next-generation fighter jet, marking a key milestone in the project. The jet, planned for service by 2035, will incorporate advanced technologies like AI and digital engineering. The collaboration aims to strengthen air defense capabilities and support local aerospace industries, creating thousands of jobs.

Jul. 4, 2026 09:39

On July 4, 2026, Britain, Italy, and Japan awarded a £4.6 billion contract to develop next-generation fighter jets under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The project, led by Edgewing, aims to deliver advanced stealth fighters by 2035, bolstering defense capabilities amid shifting European alliances.

Japan, the United Kingdom, and Italy have extended their joint development contract for a next-generation fighter jet until the end of 2027, following delays caused by the British government's defense spending plan. The project, known as the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), aims to create a stealth fighter jet that surpasses the capabilities of the U.S. F-35. The extension allows the public-private initiative to accelerate development and solidify the three nations' defense collaboration. Nikkei Asia+1

🛠️ Joint Venture Secures Funding

A joint venture involving BAE Systems (U.K.), Leonardo (Italy), and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan) has secured a $6.14 billion contract to develop the new stealth fighter jet. The project, funded by the three nations, reflects growing international military partnerships and aims to enhance defense capabilities amid rising global defense spending. The Wall Street Journal+1

🌍 Canada’s Potential Observer Status

The three countries are considering granting Canada observer status in the GCAP program, which would provide access to confidential data from the development stage. This move highlights the program's openness to expanding international collaboration while maintaining core partnerships. Nikkei Asia

🚀 Advanced Technologies and Job Creation

The next-generation fighter jet, planned for deployment by 2035, will incorporate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital engineering. The initiative is expected to create thousands of high-tech jobs and strengthen the aerospace industries in Japan, the U.K., and Italy. ChinaNews+1

💼 Strengthening European Defense Alliances

The GCAP project marks a significant milestone in defense collaboration, particularly following the collapse of a rival Franco-German fighter program. The initiative aims to bolster air defense capabilities and strengthen European alliances amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. The Japan Times

ItalyJapanBAE SystemsUnited KingdomMitsubishi Heavy Industries