UK, Italy, and Japan award £686M contract for next-gen stealth fighter under GCAP
A £686 million contract for the next-generation combat aircraft has been awarded to Edgewing, a UK-based joint venture. The deal marks a major step forward for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), which aims to develop a future stealth fighter. Three nations—the UK, Italy, and Japan—are leading the effort, with Edgewing overseeing design and engineering work.
GCAP was launched in 2022 to create an advanced combat air system while maintaining industrial capabilities across partner nations. The programme is managed by the GCAP Agency, which coordinates activities on behalf of the UK, Italy, and Japan.
Edgewing, formed by BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd., will serve as the design authority. The company will handle engineering, airworthiness, and certification throughout development. The contract, awarded on 1 April 2023, runs until 30 June 2026 and focuses on speeding up aircraft delivery. Marco Zoff, Edgewing's Chief Executive, credited the rapid progress to strong collaboration between Edgewing and the GCAP Agency. Masami Oka, head of the GCAP Agency, called the contract a key milestone, as the programme now operates as a fully international effort. Interest in GCAP is growing beyond the three founding nations. Poland began talks to join in March 2026, while India has expressed interest. Germany is also reviewing potential participation, and Italy has left the door open for new partners. Rolls-Royce's CEO confirmed that GCAP remains 'open' to additional collaborators.
The £686 million contract moves GCAP closer to delivering a next-generation stealth fighter. Edgewing's role as design authority ensures unified oversight of engineering and certification. Meanwhile, the programme continues to attract potential new members, expanding its international reach.
