Japan, UK, and Italy Fast-Track Development of Next-Gen Fighter Jet

The three nations establish a trilateral organization to oversee the aircraft's production, aiming for deployment by 2035.

Defense ministers from Japan, the UK, and Italy have agreed to accelerate the joint development of a next-generation stealth fighter jet.
The new aircraft, intended to replace Japan's F-2s and the Eurofighter Typhoons, is part of the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP).
A trilateral government organization, GCAP International Government Organization (GIGO), will be set up by the end of the year to manage the project.
Private sector companies, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, are collaborating on the jet's development.
Japan is easing arms export restrictions to support the project's success and strengthen its defense industry against regional threats.