RAF Tempest stealth fighter mock-up offers glimpse into the future of air combat
Britain, Italy and Japan have shown off a new model of their next-generation combat aircraft, known to the RAF as the Tempest.
The model was unveiled at the Farnborough International Airshow, and featured an evolved design with a wingspan larger than previous concept models to improve its aerodynamics.
BAE Systems says the Tempest, which is set to be in service in 2035, will be one of the world's most advanced, interoperable, adaptable and connected fighter jets in service.
The aircraft boasts an intelligent weapons system, a software-driven interactive cockpit, integrated sensors and a powerful next-generation radar capable of providing 10,000 times more data than current systems, giving it a battle-winning advantage.
Engineers from across BAE Systems, Leonardo and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are working together under a collaboration agreement on the design and development of the future combat aircraft.
They are using a range of digital tools and techniques, including computer-based modelling and virtual reality to evolve the aircraft's design during its concept phase.
The three Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) government partners are exhibiting at the show together for the first time.
The three companies are expected to showcase the significant strides they are making to progress the delivery of a truly next-generation combat aircraft.
Tempest could be the last fighter jet that will need a human pilot to fly it.
Air Commodore Martin Lowe, the programme director of the Future Combat Air System, spoke on the Forces News Sitrep podcast in May.
While he does not yet believe "we're quite ready to have a fully uncrewed system," that is the plan for the future.
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