Key facts
- The UK is negotiating with Canada to join a NATO-linked defense bank and a global fighter jet program.
- Canada's High Commissioner to the UK, Bill Blair, confirmed ongoing discussions.
- Gordon Brown is advising the UK government on global finance and has engaged with Canadian officials on the Defense, Security, and Resilience Bank (DSRB).
- Canada is considering joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) with the UK, Japan, and Italy.
- The UK Treasury is reportedly seeking to manage the financing of the GCAP due to potential cost overruns.
The United Kingdom is in discussions with Canada regarding potential collaboration on a NATO-linked defense bank and a global fighter jet program. Bill Blair, Canada's High Commissioner to the UK, confirmed that conversations are underway concerning the Defense, Security, and Resilience Bank (DSRB), with former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown actively involved in discussions with Canadian officials.
Brown, who is advising the UK government on global finance, has reportedly engaged with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Isabelle Hudon, who leads Canada's efforts on the DSRB. The UK has previously been hesitant to commit to the DSRB, which aims to finance defense industries in allied nations, but Brown's involvement signals a potential shift.
In parallel, Canada is seriously considering joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a joint venture with the UK, Japan, and Italy to develop sixth-generation fighter jets by 2035. Blair stated that Canada believes it can make a significant contribution due to its aeronautics industry and critical mineral resources. This potential involvement moves Canada beyond its previous observer status.
However, the GCAP faces financial scrutiny, with reports indicating the UK Treasury is seeking greater control over its financing amid concerns about escalating costs. The UK is expected to contribute £6 billion to the project as part of its delayed Defence Investment Plan. The interim deal for GCAP expires at the end of June, with no long-term funding settlement yet announced.