Preliminary work on the Global Combat Air Program project is nearly complete, according to Hermann Klasen, a leader of defense corporation BAe Systems, Reuters reported.
As Klasen said, project partners including Mitsubishi Electric and Leonardo will move into the design and development phase of the fighter in 2025.
Since the launch of GCAP 18 months ago, the UK has been working closely with industrial partners in Italy and Japan, Klasen said, as well as with the three governments to shape and agree the requirements for next-generation fighter aircraft.
The new model, with a larger wingspan than previous prototypes, “demonstrates significant progress in the design and development of the future fighter concept,” Klasen said.
“We will continue to test and develop the design as we move into the next phase of the program,” he added.
The GCAP also claims that the fighter jet will be “one of the most advanced, compatible, adaptable and interconnected fighter aircraft in the world.” It is claimed to be equipped with smart weapon systems, a software-controlled interactive cockpit, integrated sensors and a powerful next-generation radar.
