Britain’s stealth‑fighter effort faces a ten‑week window to lock in fresh government cash or see its workforce dismantled, a defence consortium warned. More than 4,000 engineers across BAE Systems, Rolls‑Royce, Leonardo UK and other partners are building a supersonic demonstrator for the Global Combat Air Programme. The stop‑gap funding signed in March lapses at the end of June.

The UK‑only jet, the first fighter since the Eurofighter Typhoon, must be flight‑ready by late 2027 to keep the multinational GCAP on track for a 2035 service entry. A year‑end March extension last month allowed work to continue, but the agreement hinges on the Treasury’s Defence Investment Plan. Edgewing – a consortium of BAE, Leonardo and Mitsubishi‑backed Japan Aircraft – secured its first international contract after talks.

The Ministry of Defence estimates the GCAP could cost the UK £12bn over ten years, a sum that underpins the nation’s Future Combat Air System and its NATO commitments. If funding lapses, BAE warns engineers would be redeployed, jeopardising the demonstrator slated for 2027. With partner nations watching, the deadline puts immediate pressure on the UK Treasury to confirm financing.