Over £4 billion invested in next-generation fighter jet with new international contract

The UK has moved the next stage of its sixth-generation fighter programme forward with a £4.6 billion contract, bringing total investment momentum alongside a wider Defence Investment Plan. The funding was awarded to the industry joint venture Edgewing, funded jointly by the UK, Italy, and Japan, and signed to establish key requirements and testing for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) aircraft. The trilateral effort targets entry into service in 2035 and is described as a stealth, AI-enabled platform intended to work alongside Typhoons, F-35s, and autonomous systems in the Royal Air Force. Defence Investment Plan confirmation states the UK will invest £8.6 billion over four years. UK minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard said the milestone supports thousands of jobs and advances digital engineering and advanced manufacturing methods. The plan also allocates £1.1 billion for Typhoon support, £2.2 billion for new F-35 purchases, and £300 million for a new autonomous combat aircraft.