# Germany Joins GCAP Fighter Jet Project

> Germany eyes joining Japan, UK and Italy's next-gen fighter jet program.
- Title: Germany Joins GCAP Fighter Jet Project · The Japan Times
- Summary: Germany eyes joining Japan, UK and Italy's next-gen fighter jet program. Germany is considering joining the Global Combat Air Program with Japan, UK and…
- Keywords: germany, italy, japan, gcap, fighter jets, global combat air program, defense, news, politics, world, Joins, Fighter
- Source: The Japan Times — https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/10/10/japan/gcap-germany-join-japan
- Author: No Author
- Published: 2026-10-10T05:02:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: germany, uk, italy, japan, gcap, fighter jets, global combat air program, defense, news, politics, world
## Germany Considers GCAP Participation
Germany is considering joining Japan, Britain and Italy in their joint next-generation fighter jet project.
## UK Expresses Support for Germany
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham told German Chancellor Friedrich Merz that Britain is positive on Germany’s participation in GCAP.
## Germany's European Approach
Germany intends to pursue a European solution for next-generation fighter jet development while asserting national interests.
## GCAP Expansion
GCAP expanded in July when Canada joined as an observer, potentially paving the way for deeper engagement with new partners.
## Japan's 2035 Target
Japan focuses on the 2035 program target due to security threats from China and F-2 fighter retirement timelines.
## Defense Minister's Stance
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi noted GCAP was developed for cooperation with Japan, UK, Italy and allies, but declined to comment on Germany.
## Key takeaway

Germany is considering joining the Global Combat Air Program with Japan, UK and Italy to develop a next-generation fighter jet.