This report, from the UK Parliament's Defence Committee, examines the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a collaborative project between the UK, Japan, and Italy to develop a next-generation combat aircraft for service from 2035. The report details the programme's history, structure, and challenges, including affordability, workforce, and export considerations.
Key concerns highlighted are managing costs effectively, maintaining a skilled workforce, and navigating the complexities of international partnerships. The report includes recommendations for mitigating risks and ensuring the programme's success, emphasising the importance of timely decision-making and transparent communication.
Finally, the report assesses the potential for future AI integration and autonomous systems within GCAP.
