Japan has confirmed its plan to deploy a new platform by 2035 as part of the trilateral Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) with the UK and Italy.
GCAP is an ongoing cooperation to develop a sixth-generation jet to replace the aging Mitsubishi F-2s in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, as well as the Eurofighter Typhoons in the Royal Air Force and Italian Air Force.
The effort brings together partner countries to combine industrial and technological expertise, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, BAE Systems, and Leonardo responsible for key components of the aircraft and its systems.
Japan’s defense agency announced the 2035 schedule following the 11th meeting of the Next-Generation Fighter System Development Promotion Committee led by Vice Defense Minister Masahisa Miyazaki.
During the assembly, officials reviewed the proposed fiscal 2026 budget for the jet’s development and provided updates on design and technology progress, according to Defence Blog.
They also discussed unmanned aerial systems intended to fly alongside the fighter, enhancing overall combat capabilities rather than functioning independently.
A key focus at this phase of the GCAP development is the aircraft’s propulsion system, which sources reported will integrate high-temperature parts, new thermal management systems, and 3D-printed components to optimize performance while lowering sustainment costs.
Defense officials said that propulsion will be important for supporting advanced sensors, electronic warfare, and future weapons beyond flight performance.
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