Japan's F-15Js will make a rare deployment to the UK, supporting strengthening UK-Japan military ties and showcasing joint efforts like the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The deployment, involving aircraft from Japan's 201st and 203rd Tactical Fighter Squadrons, will include visits to the UK and Germany, and is part of broader international military cooperation amid ongoing upgrades to Japan's F-15J fleet.
A new joint venture named Edgewing has been formed by BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement to develop the next-generation fighter jet for the GCAP program, aiming for an in-service date of 2035 and expected to operate beyond 2070, with operations spread across the UK, Italy, and Japan.
U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly offered Japan the F-47 sixth-generation stealth fighter, potentially providing Japan with an alternative to the delayed Global Combat Air Program (GCAP). Japan is also considering increasing its F-35 purchases or upgrading existing fighters, amid concerns about GCAP's timeline. The F-47, based on the NGAD program, could be a costlier but advanced option, strengthening U.S.-Japan military ties and offering Japan a chance to operate top-tier U.S. fighters. The decision hinges on cost, strategic needs, and the future of the GCAP initiative.
The UK, Japan, and Italy have formed a joint venture to develop the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) next-generation fighter jet, set to enter service in 2035. The venture, involving BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement, will act as the design authority and prime contractor, with manufacturing subcontracted to various firms. The project aims to replace existing fighter jets in the UK, Italy, and Japan, and is expected to last beyond 2070. The JV will be headquartered in the UK, fostering collaboration among the partner nations.
The UK, Japan, and Italy's Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) has been approved by the UK Prime Minister, moving forward the development of a sixth-generation combat aircraft. This project, a merger of the UK's Tempest and Japan's F-X programs, aims to produce the world's second sixth-generation aircraft by 2035, following the US B-21 Raider. The GCAP, which faced uncertainty due to the UK's strategic defense review, is now progressing with ratifications from Japan and Italy expected soon. The aircraft will feature advanced technologies and aims to replace existing fighter jets in the partner countries.
