Italy, Japan and the UK hope to deliver a sixth-generation stealth combat aircraft by 2035
The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) has taken a decisive step forward with a €5 .3 billion (£4.6 billion) international contract awarded to Edgewing on Friday, accelerating development of the next-generation combat aircraft.
Covering the period from 1 July 2026 to 31 December 2027, the agreement was issued by the GCAP Agency on behalf of Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom, following the initial €800 million (£686 million) contract signed in April 2026.
The GCAP Agency, operating under the Steering Committee of the GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO), oversees all phases of the programme, while Edgewing, a UK-headquartered joint venture between BAE Systems, Leonardo and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement, acts as the aircraft’s design authority.
UK Defence Minister Luke Pollard described the deal as “a major step forward towards delivery,” saying it strengthens allied cooperation, supports skilled jobs and reinforces national security.
