The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is a collaborative initiative among the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan to develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet, with the goal of deploying it by 2035. In December 2024, the UK government confirmed its commitment to GCAP, ending earlier concerns about potential cancellation due to cost considerations.
In November 2024, Italy and the UK extended invitations to India to join the GCAP, aiming to leverage India’s technological expertise and manufacturing capabilities. However, Japan has reportedly opposed India’s inclusion in the program, emphasizing the necessity of unanimous approval from all existing members for any new participant.
The GCAP initiative competes with other European projects, notably the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a Franco-German-Spanish endeavor. Germany has faced internal debates regarding its commitment to FCAS, with reports suggesting potential withdrawal due to disagreements with France. However, German officials have since reaffirmed their commitment to FCAS.
Concurrently, India is advancing its own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, aiming to enhance its air combat capabilities. The progress of AMCA may influence India’s stance on international collaborations like GCAP.
