The Global Combat Air Programme reached a major milestone as the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan signed a £4.6 billion ($6.1 billion) agreement to develop a next-generation stealth fighter jet. The project is expected to deliver a sixth-generation combat aircraft that will enter military service by 2035, strengthening future air defense capabilities for the three partner nations.
According to the British government, the agreement marks an important step in advancing the multinational defense initiative. The contract will support the next phase of the aircraft’s development, including finalizing key design requirements, engineering work, and extensive testing before production begins.
The future fighter jet is expected to operate alongside existing Typhoon and F-35 aircraft while integrating with autonomous military systems. Officials said the Global Combat Air Programme will combine advanced digital engineering, artificial intelligence, and next-generation technologies to enhance operational performance and battlefield effectiveness.
The British government described the aircraft as one of the most advanced fighter jets ever planned for the Royal Air Force. It said the platform is being designed to meet future security challenges while providing greater flexibility in modern air combat operations.
The £4.6 billion contract has been awarded to Edgewing, a joint venture established in 2025 by BAE Systems of the United Kingdom, Leonardo of Italy, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. (JAIEC). The partnership will oversee the aircraft’s detailed design and technical development under the Global Combat Air Programme.
The project reflects growing defense cooperation among the three countries as they seek to strengthen technological innovation and long-term security partnerships. By combining expertise from their aerospace industries, the partners aim to develop an advanced combat aircraft capable of meeting future operational requirements.
The Global Combat Air Programme is regarded as one of the world’s most ambitious military aviation projects. With the latest agreement now in place, the UK, Italy, and Japan will continue working toward delivering a sixth-generation fighter jet by 2035, reinforcing defense collaboration and technological advancement.
