The head of Italian defense firm Leonardo has expressed openness to Germany joining the GCAP fighter program. CEO Lorenzo Mariani noted that adding a new member could bring extra cash and know-how, but also warned that it might impact the development schedule and milestones. The program, a collaboration between Italy, Japan, and the UK, aims to fly a new aircraft by 2035.
Germany is exploring options after the collapse of the French-German Future Combat Air System program. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius listed joining an existing international program as one of the possibilities. However, Mariani cautioned that Europe cannot afford to have too many sixth-generation fighters under development, emphasizing the need for cooperation and cost-sharing.
The potential entry of Germany into the GCAP program comes as Japan is reportedly nervous about the 2035 deadline slipping. Meanwhile, Airbus is considering a potential connection with Sweden's Saab for a next-gen fighter.
