BAE Systems unveils sixth generation fighter demonstrator for global combat program

The record

Written from the 1 report below. Nothing here is unsourced.

BAE Systems has revealed its combat air flying demonstrator, the testbed aircraft for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), which is developing the sixth-generation Tempest fighter for the UK, Italy and Japan, with Canada as an observer.
The demonstrator is being built at Samlesbury and Warton and is expected to fly before the end of 2027, marking the UK's first fighter demonstrator since 1986.
It will test technologies and designs for a combat aircraft meant to enter service in the 2040s, amid a broader global race involving China, which already operates around 500 J-20 stealth fighters and is testing two sixth-generation prototypes, and the United States, which is pursuing the F-47 under its Next Generation Air Dominance project.
India, which is developing its fifth-generation AMCA not expected before 2035 and exploring partnerships with GCAP or the fractured European FCAS programme, faces pressure to accelerate its efforts or pursue collaboration.

What to watch next

Whether the GCAP demonstrator completes its first flight by the end of 2027 as planned.
Whether India opts to join GCAP or continues solely with its indigenous AMCA programme.
Progress of China's J-36 and J-50 sixth-generation prototypes and the US F-47 programme.

Coverage1

1 report

English national1

All filed from India

Named United Kingdom · Italy · Japan · Canada · India · China · United States · Germany · France · Spain · Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft · BAE Systems · Global Combat Air Programme · J-20 · J-36 · J-50 · Next Generation Air Dominance

The Times of India28 JulGlobal race for sixth‑gen fighters heats up as GCAP demonstrator to fly by 2027[1]English national· neutral

The 1 report is listed beside the record.

Ask this story

Answers cite the reports above, or say they can't.

← Today’s record