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4w ago

Canada Agrees to Join U.K.-Japan-Italy Fighter Project as GCAP Observer

Ottawa says the observer role gives access to early sixth‑generation development without immediate commitments, opening a path to classified talks and future purchases.

Canada is expected to become an official observer of the Global Combat Air Program to build the sixth generation of fighter jets by 2035. A concept design was on display at the Farnborough International Airshow in England in 2024.
A 1/10 model of a next-generation combat jet is on display at a booth for the Global Combat Air Program at the Japan International Aerospace Exhibition in Tokyo on Oct. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Mari Yamaguchi)

Overview

  • Canadian officials say in mid‑July they have secured observer status in the Global Combat Air Program and Defence Minister David McGuinty is expected to formalize the arrangement at a London signing next week.
  • The observer role does not require Canada to make any near‑term financial or policy commitments and is being described by officials as a first step into classified development discussions.
  • The move comes while Ottawa continues a formal review of its outstanding order of 88 F‑35 fighters and faces ongoing U.S. diplomatic pressure to complete that purchase.
  • Defence experts and former military leaders say GCAP participation could help revive Canada’s defence industrial base by giving Canadian firms early access to design work, technology roles, and potential production work.
  • GCAP partners aim to field a sixth‑generation fighter by about 2035 and Canada’s observer status is likely to shape future procurement choices, interoperability with U.S. programs and the country’s defence posture.