Canada becomes first observer to British-Italian-Japanese GCAP fighter jet project

Canada has joined the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) as an observer, marking the first expansion of the British-Italian-Japanese initiative to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet. Canadian Defence Minister David McGuinty signed the agreement in London on Tuesday with his British, Italian, and Japanese counterparts. This move allows Canada to diversify its defense partnerships amidst increasing competition in future air power between the United States and China. The GCAP aims to have a next-generation combat aircraft ready by 2035, and Canada's observer status provides it with significant insight into the project.