BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy) and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co Ltd (JAIEC) have reached an agreement to form a new company – a business joint venture which will be subject to regulatory approvals – to develop the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
The agreement builds on a solid trilateral collaboration already underway in the GCAP framework since December 2022 between the governments and defence industries of Italy, the United Kingdom and Japan.
The new joint venture will be responsible for the design, development and delivery of the next-generation fighter and will retain the role of GCAP design authority throughout the lifecycle of the aircraft, including beyond 2070.
In the joint venture, BAE Systems, Leonardo and JAIEC will each hold a 33,3% stake, combining the capabilities and expertise of the three major players in the sector to benefit the development - at an international level - of the aerospace and defence industry.
Roberto Cingolani, CEO and General Manager of Leonardo, said: “Today’s agreement is the result of an intense journey made possible by sharing our mutual experiences. In addition to improving our technological capabilities, this partnership also strengthens our commitment to global security and innovation.”
“Today, we are charting a course for a new era in aerospace systems and multi-domain scenarios, promoting long-term sustainable growth for the economies of the countries involved.”
Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive of BAE Systems, said: “Today’s agreement represents the culmination of months of collaboration with our industry partners and demonstrates the great commitment of all those involved in this strategically important program.”
"The new company will combine the significant strengths and excellent expertise of the companies involved to create an innovative organisation that will lead the development of a next-generation combat air system, creating skilled, high-value, long-term jobs for decades to come in all partner countries."
Kimito Nakae, President of JAIEC, said: “As we embark on this exciting and important journey toward GCAP program success, I recognize that the path may not always be linear and simple.”
“However, I believe that by persevering in the spirit of solid trilateral cooperation and collaboration that we have developed so far, in addition to completing the GCAP program on time, we will lead it to a level beyond all our expectations.”
The joint venture will have joint operations and teams in each of the partner countries. Its management will be based in the UK, ensuring maximum alignment and collaboration with the GCAP International Governmental Governance Organisation (GIGO), which is also headquartered in the UK. Both entities will work together to support the cost and time effective completion of the programme, including entry into service of the aircraft in 2035.
The GCAP program is of utmost importance for the security and economic prosperity of each country. The program, through effective transfer of knowledge and technology, is able to develop the air combat capability and ensure the technological sovereignty of each nation for the benefit of future generations.
