Canada joins Tempest sixth-generation fighter programme as first observer nation
Canada is set to become the first observer nation of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a joint initiative between the UK, Japan and Italy to develop the sixth-generation Tempest.
Like the Typhoon – and the Tornado that came before it – the Tempest is a collaborative effort between nations and the defence industry, which aims to deliver a new frontline fighter by 2035.
While Canada will not have a decision-making role, the move gives them privileged access to the development of programme.
It also paves the way for discussions on future participation and contribution to GCAP.
The GCAP programme is currently due to deliver new combat air capability to replace the Typhoon, which is in service with the RAF and Italian air force, and the Mitsubishi F-2 that is in service with the Japan air self-defence force.
Strengthened cooperation with allies
The announcement was made as Defence Secretary Wes Streeting hosted his Japanese, Italian and Canadian counterparts – Shinjirō Koizumi, Guido Crosetto, and David McGuinty – on his first day in post at Wellington Barracks in London.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: "As I said on the steps of Downing Street, we are going to honour our commitments on defence – and use that investment to transform people's lives.
"And we are going to work even more closely with our allies.
"So today, we are not just recommitting to our state-of-the-art GCAP fighter programme – but I am delighted to announce that Canada will join the programme as the first Observer Nation.
"GCAP is already one of the world’s most ambitious defence and industrial partnerships – supporting 4,500 jobs across the UK. Today’s announcement makes it even stronger."
Involvement in GCAP will further develop the UK's defence cooperation with Canada, building on decades of close collaboration as Five Eyes members and NATO Allies.
Sixth-generation multi-role fighter
The sixth-generation aircraft is designed to operate alongside capabilities including the F-35.
It will use advanced autonomy, AI, uncrewed systems and next-generation sensors to maintain air superiority against ever evolving threats.
This announcement comes alongside an investment of £8.6 billion into GCAP over four years as part of the Defence Investment Plan.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said: "The first duty of any government is to keep our country safe.
"That’s why I’m pushing this programme forward on my very first day in the job.
"GCAP continues to strengthen our security, drive technological innovation and create highly skilled jobs across the UK.
“We are proud to welcome Canada to this new phase of engagement and look forward to sharing expertise and working on technological advances as we continue to deliver this groundbreaking programme."
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