Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 6
6
Accepted
Establish a clearly defined framework for workshare flexibility to prevent negotiation delays.
Conclusion
Care must be taken to ensure that any flexibility around workshare is exercised within a clearly defined framework to avoid unnecessarily reopening negotiations and introducing delay. (Recommendation, Paragraph 37) Affordability
Government Response Summary
The government explains that the GCAP partnership and its Joint Venture already provide a clearly defined framework for flexibility in workshare, designed to ensure effective contributions without introducing delays.
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