Edgewing secures £4.6 bn contract for GCAP sixth‑gen fighter programme

Edgewing, a UK‑based joint venture of BAE Systems, Leonardo and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement, has been awarded an £4.6 billion (approximately $6.1 bn) contract by the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) Agency. The 18‑month award, funded jointly by the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan, will support the advanced‑concept and detailed‑design phases of the sixth‑generation stealth fighter slated to enter service in 2035, replacing the Eurofighter Typhoon in the UK and Italy and the Mitsubishi F‑2 in Japan.

The deal follows an earlier £686 million contract awarded in April 2026. Program officials highlighted its strategic importance: Masami Oka, chief executive of the GCAP Agency, called the programme “vital for global security,” while Edgewing CEO Marco Zoff said the contract reflects the trust of the three partner nations. The fighter will feature advanced sensors, AI‑driven networking and the ability to operate alongside unmanned aircraft.