Japan will collaborate with the UK and Italy to develop a next-generation fighter jet by 2035, the three countries announced on Friday, as the Japanese archipelago seeks to strengthen its defense strategy amid a tense geopolitical backdrop.
This collaboration, which will build on research already started by the three partners in advanced air combat technologies such as drones, marks Japan’s first partnership with European partners to design a combat aircraft.
A prototype for 2035
Details about the cost of the project have yet to be finalized, according to a Japanese Defense Ministry official who said production should start around 2030 or 2031 so that a prototype can be deployed by 2035.
“When you look at other countries, the United States has the F35 and Europe has the Eurofighter. Of course, we will try to create combat aircraft that exceed the capabilities of these models,” the official added.
The Japanese Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the British BAE Systems and the Italian Leonardo should be at the center of the project, according to information from the Japanese economic daily Nikkei.
“We are determined to uphold the free, open and rules-based international order, which is more important than ever at a time when these principles are challenged and when threats and attacks are increasing,” the three countries said in a press release. . release.
“Given the crucial importance of defending our democracy, economy and security and protecting regional stability, we need strong defense and security alliances, buttressed and reinforced by credible deterrence,” they added.
Source: BFM TV
