EU approves UK, Italy, Japan venture for new fighter jet

The European Commission has given the green light to a joint venture between BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. to lead the development of a next-generation fighter jet.

The European Commission approved the creation of a joint venture by UK defense company BAE Systems (Holdings) Limited, Italy’s Leonardo S.p.A., and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. to spearhead production of an advanced multi-role combat aircraft.

The new entity will serve as the lead contractor and systems integrator for the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) - a trilateral initiative involving the governments of the UK, Italy, and Japan. The program’s goal is to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet with future export potential to additional countries.

According to the commission’s statement, the approval follows a standard merger review conducted within a 35-day window. The watchdog concluded that the venture would not adversely affect competition within the European Economic Area (EEA).

The joint project marks a major step in defense cooperation between European and Asian partners and reflects a broader strategy to modernize military capabilities through multinational collaboration.

Copied