Airbus and BAE Systems are set for talks over possible opportunities for the European planemaker to play a role in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), according to the Financial Times. The talks are expected to take place in the coming weeks and will cover a range of cooperation options, including uncrewed autonomous collaborative aircraft.
The programme is currently led by the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan. Its joint venture brings together BAE Systems, Leonardo and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, along with Rolls-Royce, MBDA and Avio Aero. Airbus Defence and Space's chief executive told German media this month that Airbus wants a significant role in the programme rather than supplying minor components.
Germany's possible participation comes after the German-French fighter programme ended earlier this year. The United Kingdom's prime minister said on October 8, 2026 that the UK is open to Germany joining, speaking at a joint press conference with the German chancellor, with the aim of advancing the programme together with Italy and Japan. The report also notes that a strong Berlin push for a large design role could unsettle the programme and would need careful management, and that another option for Germany and Airbus would be cooperation with Sweden's Saab, maker of the Gripen fighter.