The European Union has granted approval for a joint venture between BAE Systems, Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Corporation, and Leonardo to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The jet is intended for use by Italy, the UK, and Japan, with potential future sales to other nations. The project, estimated to cost tens of billions of dollars, is expected to be operational by 2035.
Meanwhile, France, Germany, and Spain are working on a separate next-gen fighter, raising concerns about Europe's ability to sustain two major defense programs simultaneously.
