The Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) unveiled at the Farnborough Airshow the new conceptual model of the 6th generation fighter that will equip the air forces of the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan.
The stealth aircraft had its design revised with a greater wingspan on its delta wings to improve aerodynamics.
GCAP is led by BAE Systems, Leonardo and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and is expected to enter service in 2035, replacing fighters such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and F-15 Eagle.
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Originating from the British Tempest project, GCAP became a joint program at the end of 2022.
“In the 18 months since the launch of the Global Combat Air Programme, we’ve been working closely with our industrial partners in Italy and Japan under the collaboration agreement, and also with the three governments, to understand and align requirements for a next generation combat aircraft,” said Herman Claesen, Managing Director, Future Combat Air Systems, BAE Systems.
The next-generation fighter will debut several technologies and concepts such as a software-driven interactive cockpit, integrated sensors and a powerful next-generation radar capable of providing 10,000 times more data than current systems.
Furthermore, the aircraft will have an open data architecture so that it can be updated at a faster pace as threats evolve. Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs) and other advanced systems are also expected to be part of the program.
