Singapore weighs GCAP role as sixth-generation fighter gains interest

According to a new article by the think-tank Janes, Singapore is now in early discussions on possible involvement in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)/Tempest.

Janes stressed that talks are currently at an exploratory stage and that no decisions have been made for Singapore to commit. The publication quoted an unnamed source close to the matter.

It writes, “The development nevertheless marks the first known indication that Singapore is formally examining potential links to the programme.” Janes explained that these early talks are consistent with Singapore’s longstanding approach to major defence acquisitions.

The country prefers to spend years evaluating technologies, industrial opportunities, and long-term strategic implications before making big decisions for procurement.

Weighing in, The War Zone wrote that Singapore “has traditionally acquired the best available Western-made equipment to meet its combat aircraft needs.” It also noted that the next logical procurement after the F-35 is Collaborative Combat Aircraft.

An increasing number of countries are interested in GCAP

The news comes after Canada joined the programme as its first observer this month. Saudi Arabia, India, and Australia are also known to be interested in the jet.

The current Australian government has canceled plans to purchase the final fourth squadron of 28 F-35As. This helps leave the country’s options open to purchasing Tempest.

Having broken up from its FCAS programme with France, perhaps the biggest question for GCAP is Germany. Comes with a robust aerospace sector, deep pockets, and ambitious rearmament plans.

Germany is now exploring its options, which include joining GCAP/Tempest in some capacity, developing another aircraft with Sweden and/or Spain, or relying on 5th-generation fighters and autonomous combat aircraft.

Demonstrator under construction and set to fly in 2027

BAE is currently assembling the first demonstrator, and it is expected to fly in 2027. Japan is insistent it wants the aircraft in service by 2035.

The F-35 is being developed to replace Eurofighters and Japan’s F-15 variants and is intended to complement F-35s. The Royal Singapore Air Force has ordered 12 F-35As, and the first four are expected to be delivered by the end of this year.

Singapore in early talks on possible involvement in GCAP programme

Singapore has begun early discussions on possible involvement in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), Janes has been informed by a source close to the matter.

👉https://t.co/ajrNQVj4yw pic.twitter.com/zh7vRSNrp6

— Janes (@JanesINTEL) July 28, 2026

The UK, Italy, Japan, Canada, Australia, Germany, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia all operate F-35s or are planning to in the future.

It is unclear if Saudi Arabia’s planned purchase of F-35s will receive the go-ahead from Congress.

Reporting suggests that the internal weapons bays on GCAP are much larger than those of the F-35. This will help relieve one of the major limitations inherent in carrying munitions internally.