Japan Officially Joins UK-Italy in Global Combat Air Program (GCAP)

“(*Tokyo) – In a significant step forward for international defense cooperation, Japan has formally joined the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), a tripartite initiative with the United Kingdom and Italy to develop a sixth-generation fighter aircraft. The collaboration merges Japan’s F-X project with the UK’s Tempest and Italy’s Combat Air Strategy, aiming to deliver a next-generation stealth fighter by 2035.

The move marks Japan’s most ambitious international defense partnership in recent history and represents an important foundation in its security strategy amid rising regional threats and evolving global alliances.

A new multinational framework

In December 2023, the three countries signed a binding treaty establishing the GCAP International Government Organization (GIGO) to oversee the project Headquartered in the UK, the organisation will initially be led by a Japanese CEO, reflecting Japan’s central role in the early stages.

Key industry partners:

BAE Systems (UK)
Leonardo (Italy)
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan)

The companies have formed a joint venture with equal shares, tasked with the design, development and long-term support of the aircraft until 2070.

Next-generation fighter vision

The GCAP aircraft is expected to replace Japan’s aging F-2 and complement allied fleets. Its expected capabilities include:

AI-enabled decision support systems
Stealth delta-wing design
Advanced electronic warfare (EW) capabilities
Integrated unmanned teaming

A demonstrator is expected to fly by 2027, with full service entry for 2035 is targeted.

Japan’s strategic priorities

Japanese officials have expressed concern about the potential delivery delay extending to 2040. To maintain operational readiness, Japan is exploring interim options such as:

Upgrading its existing F-2 fleet
Purchasing additional F-35 aircraft

Still, GCAP offers Japan long-term benefits:

Greater industrial autonomy
Diversified defense partnerships
Integration into a European-led aerospace supply chain

“”This program is not just about building aircraft, but about building a lasting industrial and strategic alliance.”

— Tomohiro Kawada, Head of ATLA, DSEI Japan 2025

Implications for Indo-Pacific Security

GCAP strengthens Japan’s position in the Indo-Pacific, especially as China is expanding its regional military presence. It is consistent with Japan’s evolving defense doctrine, which includes:

Increased defense spending
Missile and naval modernization
Enhanced NATO interoperability

The partnership also diversifies Japan’s strategic alliances while complementing its existing U.S. security architecture.

Conclusion

GCAP represents more than just a fighter jet program – it is a long-term geopolitical and industrial alliance. For Japan, it signals a new phase of international leadership, innovation, and strategic flexibility. If implemented, over time, GCAP will redefine next-generation air power and multinational defense cooperation in Europe and the Indo-Pacific.

FAQs: People Also Ask

Q1: What is the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP)?

GCAP is a joint project between Japan, the UK and Italy that aims to develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet by 2035. It combines Japan’s F-X project with the UK’s Tempest and Italy’s Combat Air Strategy. The aircraft will feature AI support, unmanned teaming, advanced stealth and electronic warfare systems.

Q2: Why is Japan’s role in GCAP so important right now?

Japan’s entry into GCAP shows how seriously it is preparing for Indo-Pacific security challenges, especially with China’s military development and rising regional tensions. Japan is also increasing its defense spending and increasing cooperation with NATO countries. The move also helps Japan reduce its dependence on a single partner like the US and diversify its alliances.

Q3: Will GCAP affect Japan’s current fighter jets, such as the F-2 and F-35?

Yes. GCAP aims to replace the aging F-2 fleet by 2035. However, since delays are possible (perhaps even until 2040), Japan is buying more F-35s and upgrading existing F-2s to keep them ready. In the long run, GCAP will give Japan greater defense independence and a stronger industrial partnership with Europe.