LONDON — On Friday, three companies collaborating on a next-generation fighter jet for the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan disclosed their plans to establish a joint venture aimed at producing the aircraft.

The new partnership, consisting of Britain’s BAE Systems, Italy’s Leonardo, and Japan’s Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Corporation, will see each entity holding an equal one-third stake in the venture, pending necessary regulatory approvals.

Roberto Cingolani, the CEO of Leonardo, expressed that this agreement is a culmination of extensive efforts to combine their collective expertise and experiences.
The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) will set its base in the UK, though operations will be conducted across all three partner nations. The initial CEO of the joint venture will be appointed from Italy.
Charles Woodburn, the CEO of BAE Systems, stated that this new entity would harness the diverse strengths and knowledge of all involved companies to create an innovative organization. This approach seeks to pave the way for the development of a next-generation combat air system that will generate high-value, skilled job opportunities across the partner nations for years to come.

The design of the jets will feature a triangular shape with supersonic capabilities and advanced technology. Notably, pilots will be equipped with virtual reality systems in the aircraft’s digital cockpit, offering critical information displayed within their direct line of sight.
The goal is to have these jets operational by 2035.

Kimito Nakae, president of JAIEC, recognized that the journey ahead may come with challenges but emphasized that maintaining the strong spirit of trilateral cooperation they have built so far will be essential. He is confident that they can not only meet the timeline for GCAP but also exceed the project’s expectations.