On June 2, the European Commission approved the establishment of a joint venture between BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), and Japan’s Organization for the Promotion of Aircraft Industry, aimed at developing a sixth-generation fighter jet. The new company will serve as the primary contractor and system integrator for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), with a delivery goal set for the end of 2035.
According to the Commission's statement, the aircraft will primarily serve the UK, Italian, and Japanese governments, with potential future sales to other strategic partners globally. The joint venture will operate on an equal-share basis (33.3% each), be headquartered in the UK, and initially led by an Italian CEO.
Meanwhile, France, Germany, and Spain are also advancing similar next-generation fighter programs, raising questions about Europe's capacity to simultaneously manage multiple high-end defense projects.
This cross-continental cooperation reflects the growing momentum in global defense collaboration, offering high potential for long-term attention and discussion.
