Key facts
- The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) fighter jet is scheduled to enter service by 2035.
- The CEO of Edgewing, the joint venture designing the jet, stated the timeline will not change with new partners.
- Canada is expected to join the program as an observer.
- Japan is particularly motivated to meet the 2035 deadline as its F-2 fighters are due for retirement.
- Edgewing recently secured a £4.6 billion contract from the UK, Italy, and Japan.
The timeline for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) fighter jet to enter service by 2035 will not be altered by the potential addition of new countries to the project, according to Marco Zoff, CEO of Edgewing, the joint venture responsible for its design. This statement comes amid speculation that the British, Italian, and Japanese-led program might expand, particularly after a rival Franco-German fighter project collapsed.
Canada is reportedly nearing a deal to become an observer to the GCAP program, a move that would not require immediate financial commitment and is expected to be announced soon. Zoff emphasized that the strong governmental directive to adhere to the schedule would ensure that any new partners are accommodated without jeopardizing the final timeline. Japan, in particular, is keen to maintain the 2035 target as its current F-2 fighters are scheduled for retirement around that time, viewing China's military expansion as a security threat.
Edgewing, jointly owned by BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement, recently secured a £4.6 billion ($6.19 billion) contract from the three participating nations. Italy's defense minister has previously suggested that a new partner could help share these costs, and Leonardo has indicated that Germany would be a valuable addition due to its expertise. Saudi Arabia has also expressed interest in GCAP. Canada's potential involvement could lead to deeper cooperation in the future as it seeks to diversify its defense partnerships beyond the U.S. Zoff described any new partner as a "net positive," noting that the project is already progressing faster than typical defense industry timelines. The current focus is on completing the concept assessment phase by the end of 2027, with ongoing discussions about the future assembly locations for the jet across the participating countries.