Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 5
5
Accepted
Flexibility in Global Combat Air Programme workshare supported while ensuring equal partnership perception
Conclusion
We support an element of flexibility in workshare arrangements for GCAP, whilst also recognising the need for all three nations involved to be, and be seen to be, equal partners over the course of the programme. (Conclusion, Paragraph 36)
Government Response Summary
The government outlines that the GCAP partnership, through its Joint Venture, inherently allows for flexibility in workshare while ensuring effective contributions from each nation and promoting greater cooperation.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The GCAP partnership was formed on the basis of the strong industrial and technological capabilities of the UK, Japan and Italy, all of which contribute meaningfully and substantially to our shared aim of delivering a next-generation combat aircraft. Together, we have undertaken robust concepting and assessment activity since 2022, when the partnership was announced, aligning joint requirements to industrial capability and schedule. This provides the framework within which discussions take place as to how each country can contribute most effectively to the shared endeavour, supporting both the schedule and affordability. UK, Japanese and Italian lead industry partners have chosen an empowered Joint Venture (JV), with joint teams working closely to develop joint IP, as the most effective way to deliver the programme. This approach means greater cooperation between industry teams and the flexibility to bring the best from each country into the programme. In this way, international industry partnering bolsters the sovereign capabilities of each country, supporting our individual and collective Freedom of Action and Freedom of Modification. 1 Convention on the establishment of the ‘Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) - International Government Organisation’, 14 December 2024, Gov.uk