Tempest / Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)
UK, Italy, Japan (multinational collaboration) · 2018 (Team Tempest launched) - 2035 (target service entry) · £8.9 billion (estimated project cost up to 2035 for UK)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchGCAP represents a significant international collaboration to develop future combat air capabilities. - The programme aims to deliver a fighter jet for 2035, replacing existing fleets. - Emphasis on deep-strike capability, stealth, long range, and heavy weapons load.
Key engineering challenges
Developing a highly advanced, interoperable, and connected sixth-generation fighter jet. - Integrating cutting-edge technologies such as stealth, AI, and drone teaming. - Managing a complex multinational development and production programme. - Ensuring the aircraft meets the diverse operational requirements of three nations.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- UK Ministry of Defence, Italian Ministry of Defence, Japanese Ministry of Defense
- Lead contractor
- BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan)
- Lead designers
- BAE Systems, Leonardo, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
- Project type
- new build
- Scale
- Sixth-generation stealth fighter; advanced sensors, AI, and drone teaming capabilities.
- Disciplines
- Aeronautical engineering; stealth technology; artificial intelligence; avionics; systems integration; software engineering; advanced manufacturing
- Standards & frameworks
- International military aviation standards; potentially new standards for AI and autonomous systems integration.
Sources: Wikipedia: Global Combat Air Programme (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_Combat_Air_Programme) - BAE Systems: Global Combat Air Programme (https://www.baesystems.com/en/product/global-combat-air-programme) - RAF: Team Tempest (https://www.raf.mod.uk/what-we-do/team-tempest/)