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Britain commits £8.6 billion to joint fighter jet program with Japan and Italy
The British government set out £8.6 billion in funding for the Global Combat Air Program over the next four years. The commitment follows months of uncertainty over financing and potential delays to the next development phase.
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Britain will invest £8.6 billion ($11.7 billion) in the Global Combat Air Program over the next four years, according to the U.K. Defense Investment Plan released Tuesday. The funding commitment covers development of a next-generation fighter jet with Japan and Italy.
Officials said the money will support research, design, and capabilities work through 2030. The plan also states that the next international contract for the program will be signed shortly, extending the current development agreement through the end of 2027.
Background on the program The trilateral effort began several years ago to replace aging fighter fleets in the three countries. A concept model of the aircraft was displayed at an exhibition in Chiba, Japan, in May 2025. Months of uncertainty had raised concerns that funding shortfalls could push back the schedule.
The new British commitment is intended to keep the program on track for its next phase.
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