Bombardier and BAE Systems sign agreement as Canada explores future GCAP role

Bombardier has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BAE Systems to explore opportunities to develop complementary industrial and technology capabilities that could support future combat air programmes.

Announced on 28 October, the agreement focuses on identifying areas where the two companies can work together across key technological and industrial capabilities.

What the Bombardier-BAE agreement covers

Under the MoU, the companies will explore collaboration in:

• Research and development
• Systems integration
• Workforce development
• Supply chain development
• Industrialisation
• In-service lifecycle management

Stephen McCullough, executive vice president of engineering, product development and Bombardier Defense, said the agreement provides a  “clear framework to explore how these capabilities can support next-generation defence programs, while strengthening industrial capacity, high-value jobs and long-term aerospace leadership.”

BAE Systems said the partnership aims to support the delivery of next-generation combat air solutions and create value across the entire lifecycle.

Canada’s industrial ambitions at the centre of the deal

BAE Systems linked the agreement directly to Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy and the country’s ambition to develop domestic combat air capabilities.

According to the company, the partnership brings together the aerospace and defence expertise of both organisations to support the development of long-term sovereign combat air capabilities in Canada and for international markets.

The agreement highlights the importance of engineering expertise, manufacturing capability and long-term support in developing future combat air programmes.

How the agreement relates to the GCAP programme

The announcement follows Canada’s decision to join the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) as an observer in July 2026.

GCAP is the sixth-generation combat aircraft programme being developed by the UK, Italy and Japan, with entry into service targeted for 2035.

BAE Systems is one of the programme’s leading industrial partners alongside Leonardo and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Their joint venture, Edgewing, acts as the programme’s prime contractor and design authority.

While Bombardier’s announcement references Canada’s observer status, it does not award the company work on GCAP or confirm any future workshare.