🚀 Global Combat Air Programme

Commons Chamber

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The UK, alongside Japan and Italy, is advancing the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to develop the next-generation fighter jet, Tempest, by 2035, building on its storied history with aircraft like the Spitfire and Typhoon. The Defence Committee’s report emphasizes the need for transparency in costs and learning from past project challenges to ensure GCAP’s success, highlighting the programme’s significance for national security and industrial capacity. The collaboration aims to counter global threats and enhance technological capabilities, including AI and uncrewed aircraft, but faces challenges in workforce recruitment and the potential inclusion of additional partners like Saudi Arabia. The programme’s success hinges on maintaining the timeline and effectively managing the substantial financial investment, with a strong call for multi-year funding commitments to support the ambitious project.

Summary

  • The UK is collaborating with Japan and Italy on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to develop a new fighter jet, named Tempest, by 2035.
  • This programme builds on the UK’s historic leadership in combat air, following the legacy of iconic aircraft like the Spitfire, Tornado, and Typhoon.
  • GCAP aims to enhance national sovereignty, strengthen international alliances, and boost the UK’s defence industry.
  • The Defence Committee emphasizes the need for transparency in GCAP’s costs, given the significant budget allocation: £2 billion spent already, and £12 billion planned over the next decade.
  • Past issues with multilateral defence projects, like the Eurofighter Typhoon, highlight the need for effective management and accountability to avoid cost overruns and delays.
  • The programme must be flexible enough to incorporate future technologies such as artificial intelligence and uncrewed aircraft.
  • GCAP’s success will depend heavily on its workforce, necessitating strong recruitment and retention strategies, including transitioning workers from the Typhoon project.
  • The potential expansion of GCAP to include other countries should be carefully considered to ensure it doesn’t delay the 2035 target.
  • The committee visited RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland and acknowledged the dedication of the RAF personnel, emphasizing the human aspect of defence.
  • The importance of training solutions was also stressed, particularly the need for a jet training programme after the Hawk series production ended.

Divisiveness

The parliamentary session exhibited limited disagreement. Most members concurred on the importance and the overall objectives of the Global Combat Air Programme, while the few issues raised involved constructive suggestions rather than strong opposition. For example, members across parties agreed on the necessity of transparency and workforce considerations. Disagreement was mild and focused on specifics such as export strategies and training solutions.