Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 3
3
Accepted
Assess potential new Global Combat Air Programme partners cautiously, prioritising 2035 in-service date
Conclusion
An open-minded but cautious approach should be taken to including new international partners within GCAP. The potential benefits will need to be weighed carefully against the risks, with any proposed partnering opportunity carefully assessed on its own merits. Any additional partnering arrangements that could jeopardise the 2035 in-service date should not be contemplated. (Recommendation, Paragraph 21)
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the cautious approach to new partners, stating that the UK, Japan, and Italy are already clear that any additions must be driven by programme needs and the agreed timeline.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The GCAP international partnership was formed following substantial assessment of UK, Japanese and Italian requirements and industrial capabilities, to ensure each would contribute to successful delivery of the programme. The UK, Japan and Italy are open to further partners, and are clear that this must similarly be driven by the needs of the programme and its agreed timeline.