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23h ago

GCAP Awards First Joint £686 Million Design Contract to Edgewing

The deal signals a shift to a single UK–Italy–Japan program under the GCAP Agency to speed design of a next‑generation fighter.

3D render of GCAP, focusing on the manned element the Tempest fighter. (Image credit: Edgewing)

Overview

  • The GCAP Agency’s contract, awarded Wednesday, is worth £686 million and funds design and engineering work through June 30, 2026.
  • Edgewing, a UK‑based joint venture of BAE Systems, Leonardo and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd., is named design authority for the aircraft.
  • The award moves work once handled under three national deals into one integrated program that leaders say will quicken delivery.
  • The design authority role covers engineering, airworthiness and certification, setting common standards across the three nations’ teams.
  • Program officials said a fuller international contract is planned, as GCAP pursues a stealth‑capable fighter and related systems that partners have slated for service in 2035.