The UK, Japan, Italy have signed the first international contract to develop a new fighter jet under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), committing £686mn for engineering and design work. The deal, valid until June 2024, aims to secure the first aircraft delivery by 2035. This short-term agreement bridges funding gaps while the UK government finalizes its delayed 10-year defense investment plan, which faced a £28bn shortfall last year.

The UK’s repeated delays in publishing its defense strategy have caused friction, particularly with Japan, which expressed frustration over stalled negotiations for a full contract. Previously, the three nations funded GCAP through separate bilateral agreements, but this marks their first trilateral funding arrangement through the GCAP consortium. Industry partners, including BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, emphasized the pact’s importance for maintaining momentum.

Edgewing, the industrial consortium backed by BAE, Leonardo, and Mitsubishi, stated the agreement reflects partners’ commitment. A Ministry of Defence spokesperson added the contract ‘enables critical delivery work’ and keeps the program on track. While funding remains provisional, officials assure additional investments will follow to support long-term goals.