Britain's Defence Minister to Discuss Global Fighter Jet Programme with Japan and Italy

Britain's new defence minister will meet with counterparts from Japan and Italy next week to discuss the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). Despite progress, the Labour government has not committed to the programme pending a strategic defence review. Junior Defence Minister Luke Pollard emphasized the importance of cutting-edge capabilities and economic benefits.

In a significant development, Britain's new defence minister is scheduled to meet with counterparts from Japan and Italy next week to focus on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The programme, which stands as a major international defence collaboration, remains a focal point even as the new Labour government has yet to commit to it ahead of an ongoing defence review.

The three countries signed an international treaty last December to establish GCAP, merging their next-generation fighter jet efforts. Potential future partners, including Saudi Arabia, may join the project. However, speculation has arisen about the Labour Party's commitment to the programme following their July 4 election victory and a recently announced defence review, which will report back in early 2025.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed the importance of GCAP and the upcoming ministerial meeting with Japan and Italy. Junior Defence Minister Luke Pollard reiterated the programme's significance but refrained from making commitments, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive review led by former NATO Secretary General George Robertson. Pollard stressed the importance of advanced military capabilities and economic benefits, while ensuring procurement remains cost-effective.

(With inputs from agencies.)