GCAP is expected to drive significant technological advancements and economic growth in the participating countries, supporting skilled employment and industrial development.

On June 2, 2025, the European Union approved a joint venture among BAE Systems from the UK, Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co Ltd, and Leonardo S.p.A. to lead the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), aimed at developing a sixth-generation combat aircraft.

This collaboration is designed to enhance defense capabilities and strengthen military ties among the UK, Italy, and Japan.

The joint venture is part of a broader initiative to modernize military aviation technology in response to global security challenges.

Despite competition from other European nations pursuing their own next-generation fighter projects, GCAP is viewed as a strategic initiative critical for ensuring technological sovereignty for future generations.

The initiative aims to deliver the fighter aircraft by 2035, integrating operations across multiple domains including air, land, sea, space, and cyber.

The aircraft will feature a fully digital design, utilizing advanced command, control, and communications systems enhanced by artificial intelligence and cyber-resilient datalinks.

This initiative highlights a growing trend of partnerships among countries to enhance military capabilities amid evolving global security challenges.

The project will involve collaboration with various aerospace and defense companies and academic institutions, promoting innovation across the sector.

Ownership of the joint venture is equally divided among the three partners, each holding a 33.3% stake, with the company headquartered in Britain and its first CEO from Italy.

The approval reflects the EU's commitment to fostering defense cooperation and promoting joint military projects among member and partner states.

While specific details about the aircraft's design and capabilities were not disclosed, the project marks a significant step in international defense collaboration.