Rome, — Italy has rejected Germany's request to join the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) as a full partner, offering Berlin only observer status in the UK-Italy-Japan sixth-generation fighter programme. The proposal would give Germany access to programme information but no decision-making authority or direct role in aircraft design and development.
Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto presented the position during an online meeting this week with his British and Japanese counterparts. According to the Financial Times, Italy wants to avoid delays and disruption to existing industrial agreements, which have taken years to negotiate.
Concerns Over Programme Delays
GCAP aims to develop an advanced sixth-generation stealth fighter for entry into service by 2035. Its industrial development is led by BAE Systems, Leonardo and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries through their joint venture, Edgewing.
Italy and Japan are concerned that adding Germany as an equal partner could complicate decision-making, delay development and reduce the industrial work available to their companies. Germany's Airbus is also seeking a significant manufacturing and leadership role through discussions with BAE Systems.
Canada is currently GCAP's first observer nation, with access to information but no decision-making or aircraft design role.
Germany Wants Full Membership
Berlin is expected to reject the proposal. A German official described observer status as "unacceptable", stressing that Germany wants full membership in exchange for financial contributions and a guaranteed industrial workshare.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said Germany's decision would depend on the balance between industrial work, programme timelines and financial contributions.
The disagreement follows the collapse of Germany's Future Combat Air System (FCAS) partnership with France and Spain in June 2026. Germany is now considering alternatives, including GCAP and possible aerospace cooperation with Sweden.
Talks Continue
The UK has supported discussions about bringing Germany into GCAP, with Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressing openness during a visit to Berlin last month.
However, the existing partners have already established key industrial and design arrangements. Adding a full member would require renegotiating these agreements, which Italy and Japan fear could affect the programme's schedule.
Officials from Germany, Italy and Japan have agreed to continue discussions following a call this week. Germany is expected to make a decision on its GCAP ambitions by the end of March 2027.
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