In a significant development underscoring Riyadh’s growing role in advanced defense projects, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto announced on Thursday, December 4, that Saudi Arabia and Canada have formally expressed interest in joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
The announcement comes as other countries, including Germany and Australia, are also exploring potential participation.
GCAP, currently led by Italy, the United Kingdom, and Japan, aims to develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet by 2035, in collaboration with major industrial partners: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan, BAE Systems in the UK, and Leonardo in Italy.
During a parliamentary hearing, Crosetto noted that Germany—despite being part of the €100-billion FCAS program with France and Spain—may consider joining GCAP in the future due to challenges within its existing framework.
The minister added that Italy is preparing a clear pathway for interested countries, mentioning Australia as another potential candidate. The program focuses on a next-generation combat aircraft operating seamlessly with drone systems, with all founding nations committed to equal partnership.
Crosetto emphasized that expanding the number of participants will enhance the program’s “critical mass,” widen research and industrial capacities, reduce costs, and boost economic benefits. Today, GCAP stands as one of the most ambitious sixth-generation fighter initiatives worldwide – attracting global attention and interest from key regional powers such as Saudi Arabia seeking to elevate their airpower capabilities through cutting-edge defense collaboration.
