IRIA News

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The United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan have invited Saudi Arabia to join the ambitious Global Combat Air Program (GCAP). The joint venture is aimed at developing an advanced 6th-generation stealth fighter jet stealth aircraft to enter service in the mid-2030s.

Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani recently revealed Saudi Arabia’s potential involvement in the GCAP. While discussing possible collaboration, Tajani stated: “The deal we have with Britain and Japan, I think will now be extended to Saudi Arabia.” Although official confirmation is pending, this development aligns with earlier discussions among GCAP partners regarding expanding the initiative’s membership.

The GCAP, which began in 2022, is designed to create a next-generation fighter aircraft capable of superior stealth, advanced sensors, and networked combat capabilities. The program is set to replace aging fleets such as the Boeing F-15 and the Eurofighter Typhoon by the mid-2030s, representing a technological leap forward in air combat.

Saudi Arabia’s potential inclusion in GCAP is no surprise. The kingdom has been making significant investments in diversifying its economy and modernizing its defense capabilities. These efforts are part of the Vision 2030 initiative, an ambitious blueprint aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on oil revenues by fostering innovation and industrialization across multiple sectors, including defense. At the same time, the UK, Japan, and Italy are also looking for additional partners to join the program to fund the ongoing research and development.

#ICYMI
Looking back on @FIAFarnborough when the three nations of the #GlobalCombatAir Programme unveiled the new concept model of the next generation combat aircraft…
🇬🇧🇯🇵🇮🇹 #FIA2024https://t.co/Dd4Vel298x pic.twitter.com/ijvRyaR3xW

— GlobalCombatAir (@GlobalCombatAir) July 30, 2024

Historically, Saudi Arabia has relied heavily on imported military equipment, particularly for its air force. which boasts U.S.-built F-15 fighters. However, the kingdom has recently shifted toward a strategy of co-production and local manufacturing, aiming to retain more economic and technological value within its borders.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has faced challenges in its defense procurement efforts. For instance, the kingdom attempted to acquire the Eurofighter Typhoon, a fighter jet jointly developed by the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain, but encountered resistance from Germany due to political concerns. This new partnership with GCAP could potentially sidestep such hurdles, offering Saudi Arabia a seat at the table in the creation of cutting-edge defense technology.

The UK’s BAE Systems, Italy’s Leonardo, and Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. These companies are pooling expertise to design a stealth fighter with capabilities that outclass existing platforms.

The fighter jet, often referred to as “Tempest,” will feature advanced artificial intelligence for decision support, next-generation stealth technology, and unparalleled connectivity with other military assets. While the GCAP nations initially envisioned this project as a trilateral effort, the inclusion of Saudi Arabia could broaden its industrial and financial base, ensuring the program’s long-term success.

The aircraft will integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems for enhanced decision-making, allowing the pilot to focus on mission-critical tasks and enabling autonomous operations when necessary. Equipped for hypersonic missiles and swarm-drone deployment, the Tempest will redefine offensive and defensive air capabilities. Its state-of-the-art sensors will offer unparalleled situational awareness, utilizing multi-spectral imaging and tracking systems.

The fighter will also boast next-generation weaponry, including directed-energy weapons like lasers, for precision targeting. A digital backbone will ensure seamless communication and interoperability with other military assets. Additionally, its modular and sustainable design will allow for cost-effective upgrades and adaptability, ensuring that the Tempest remains at the forefront of air combat for decades to come.

For Saudi Arabia, joining this elite club could be a significant step forward in its quest to transform itself into a hub of technological innovation and military might. For the UK, Italy, and Japan, welcoming Saudi Arabia into the fold could ensure that GCAP remains a formidable force in the race for air superiority.