UK, Italy and Japan set up joint venture to develop sixth-generation fighter jet

21 June 2025 , 08:35

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UK, Italy and Japan set up joint venture to develop sixth-generation fighter jet

Edgewing to oversee full-cycle development of next-generation combat aircraft

British defense giant BAE Systems, Italy’s Leonardo, and Japan’s Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement have announced the creation of a joint venture named Edgewing. The new enterprise will lead the design and development of a sixth-generation fighter jet under the international Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).

Edgewing will be responsible for the full development cycle of the advanced combat aircraft, which is expected to become the backbone of next-generation air forces and enter service by 2035. The company will play a central role in executing GCAP and aims to serve as a model of deep international cooperation.

“By uniting the strengths of our talented people in the UK, Italy, and Japan, we are not only building a next-generation combat air system — we are also setting a new global standard for partnership, innovation, and trust,” said Marco Zoff, former Managing Director of Leonardo’s Aircraft Division, who will lead Edgewing.

The joint venture will establish offices in all three partner countries, with its headquarters located in the United Kingdom.

“We welcome the launch of Edgewing as a major milestone in this truly international development program. I am confident that together we will create a new model of collaboration that fosters integration, trust, and shared responsibility for the future,” commented GCAP Director General Masami Oka.

Thomas Brown

Head of Investigations