The United Kingdom and Japan are set to lock in a technology and investment partnership worth over £18 billion, roughly $24 billion. The deal, expected to be finalized during a meeting between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in London on June 14, 2026, covers artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and dual-use defense technologies.
The agreement is projected to create tens of thousands of jobs across both countries.
What’s actually in the deal
In February 2026, the two nations announced joint funding of around £15.7 million for UK-Japan quantum and digital connectivity projects. This new agreement significantly expands that initial commitment.
The partnership includes the planned creation of a new fund dedicated to startup ventures in dual-use technologies. These are technologies that serve both civilian and military purposes, including drones, space systems, and AI applications that can be deployed in defense settings.
