Italy and Japan agree to accelerate the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) (defence24.com)

• Italy and Japan agree to accelerate GCAP fighter programme.
• UK technology transfer issues and rising costs strain the project.
• Possible German entry after FCAS collapse could cause industrial tensions.

"On 15 June, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome to accelerate the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The programme, a sixth-generation fighter jet, is developed by BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), and JAIEC (Japan) through the joint venture Edgewing. Italy has approved €8.77 billion for early phases, but costs are estimated to rise to €18.6 billion. The UK faces criticism for not fully sharing technology. Germany, after the collapse of FCAS, could join GCAP but would bring industrial tensions. The target is operational capability by 2035."