Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
3rd report - The Global Combat Air Programme
Defence Committee
HC 598
Published 14 January 2025
Conclusions (3)
9
Conclusion
Acknowledged
The Committee was greatly encouraged by Japan’s recognition of the importance of exports to their GCAP partners. Nonetheless, Japan’s inexperience as a defence exporter is likely to present unique challenges for GCAP which were not in evidence for Typhoon. The UK government must continue to support and encourage Japan in …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the importance of exportability, states future exports are recognized in the GCAP treaty, and expresses confidence that partners are implementing necessary policy measures to achieve export goals.
12
Conclusion
Acknowledged
The Hawk trainer aircraft has been a UK defence export success story, but with domestic production lines closing four years ago the skills and manufacturing capacity which had built up over decades will prove challenging and costly to regenerate. We recognise that innovative training solutions, including modular aircraft and synthetics, …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges that further investment is needed for the Hawk T2 to meet its 2040 out-of-service date and is currently assessing alternative options for the program.
15
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Whilst progress to date has been positive, previous multilateral defence programmes have frequently seen costs spiral and delays pile up and GCAP will have to break the mould if it is to achieve its ambitious target date. Decisions made at this early stage around partnerships, delivery structures and workshare by …
Government Response Summary
The government expresses gratitude for the report and affirms GCAP has been designed to learn lessons from previous programs, acknowledging the importance of the program and commitment to working with partners and Parliament.