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Germany weighs participation in British sixth-generation fighter jet program

Exploratory talks between Germany and the United Kingdom are assessing potential German participation in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a sixth-generation fighter jet project being developed by the UK, Italy, and Japan. While no decision to join has been made, Berlin is also considering a partnership with Sweden and Spain.

The initiative originated in London and covers German military requirements as well as the division of development and production activities, according to *Politico Europe*. The German Ministry of Defence confirmed the initial contacts to the publication but did not clarify whether any specific form of participation had been discussed.

However, internal documents point to obstacles regarding Germany's entry. These include the difficulty of securing a role for the German industry in a program where the division of responsibilities is already established, as well as doubts about the project's compatibility with the needs of the country's armed forces.

One assessment suggests that GCAP prioritizes maritime operations—reflecting the UK's operational reality—whereas Germany seeks capabilities geared toward the European mainland. The documents also note the influence of BAE Systems, stemming from their experience with the Eurofighter collaboration.

These studies view a potential partnership with Sweden and Spain more favorably, citing the alignment of military requirements and the opportunity to negotiate industrial participation from the outset. This alternative has not yet been formalized, and the assessments do not represent a definitive position from either the German government or the GCAP consortium.

According to the British government, the program was awarded a £4.6 billion contract in July to advance the aircraft's development. GCAP aims for the aircraft to enter service in 2035, with development progressing to the final stages before the end of the decade.