BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Mitsubishi to Develop Sixth-Generation Fighter Jet

BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries have announced that they have launched a joint venture to develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet aimed to become operational by 2035. The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) intends to produce a supersonic stealth fighter jet that can remain in service beyond 2070. The three companies will hold equal shares in the venture; BAE Systems from the United Kingdom, Leonardo from Italy, and Japan's subsidiary, Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement, each holding a 33.3% stake.

In a joint statement released on Friday, it was noted that the venture will be responsible for the aircraft's design, development, and delivery, as well as covering future versions of the aircraft as long as it remains on the market. The venture is expected to be operational by mid-2025, with teams working in the partner countries. The first CEO will be appointed from Italy.

This collaboration is supported by an international agreement among the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan. The project will include a drone fleet and advanced computing systems for real-time decision-making, likened by Leonardo's CEO Roberto Cingolani to large-scale space endeavors.