News of War Staff Writer
A concept model of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)'s fighter jet is displayed at the DSEI Japan defense show at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, east of Tokyo, Japan March 15, 2023. Reuters/Kim Kyung-Hoon
Global Combat Air Programme: Italy, Japan, and Britain Consider Expanding International Fighter Jet Initiative
Italy, Japan, and Britain have indicated the possibility of broadening their joint venture to develop an advanced fighter jet to include additional nations, albeit in a later phase, as stated by Italy's Defence Minister in a recent interview.
In December, these three nations ratified an international treaty, initiating the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) - a groundbreaking defence industry collaboration that unifies their respective endeavours in creating next-generation combat aircraft.
"Italy will not entertain the inclusion of other countries until the initial phase is concluded," Defence Minister Guido Crosetto informed the Italian newspaper, Il Corriere della Sera. He noted a keen interest from various nations in joining the programme, yet he did not directly address queries regarding potential involvement from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Crosetto further mentioned, "Subsequent to this phase, and with unanimous consent, we might consider extending the programme to other countries."
The objective is to have the fighter aircraft operational by 2035, with the joint development stage slated to commence in 2025.
According to prior reports by Reuters, the GCAP might invite additional countries as junior partners. Saudi Arabia is seen as a potential participant, offering financial resources and a significant market to the project, which is anticipated to require an investment of tens of billions of dollars.