UK Backs Saudi Bid to Join GCAP Despite Japanese Resistance

Defence affairs - TURDEF ANALYSIS 

Saudi Arabia moves closer to joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) fighter jet programme as London and Tokyo clash over Riyadh’s added value.

Saudi Arabia is edging closer to joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), the sixth-generation fighter jet initiative led by Japan, the United Kingdom, and Italy. According to The Japan Times, the three partner countries have acknowledged that Riyadh “could potentially join the GCAP project”, but only “after the initiative has made significant progress and current members have resolved key issues, including those related to technology transfers.”

Backed by strong support from the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia’s push for entry comes despite persistent opposition from Japan. While Tokyo has argued that “Saudi Arabia would bring little to the table,” London has emphasised the financial boost Riyadh could provide to the ambitious programme. The tension between the two positions now appears to be approaching resolution.

Launched with the goal of developing a new supersonic fighter aircraft by 2035, GCAP is currently managed by the three founding nations. Officials told The Japan Times that there is “no formal obstacle to Saudi Arabia joining,” but any expansion would be considered only after the programme reaches certain critical milestones. These include the signing of an international agreement between the newly established GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO) and the industrial joint venture Edgewing.

GIGO, based in Reading, UK, officially began operations this Monday to oversee intergovernmental coordination. Edgewing—formed last month by BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. (JAIEC)—will be responsible for designing and developing the future aircraft.

Following a virtual meeting on Monday between the defence ministers of the three partner nations, a source speaking to The Japan Times stated: “There’s no obstacle to Saudi Arabia joining the programme, but we need to first define the necessary criteria and clarify all outstanding points.”