Canada takes observer role in GCAP as UK, Italy and Japan deepen fighter cooperation

Canada has joined the GCAP/Tempest programme as an observer state and is set to join future meetings.

Last week, the relevant defence ministers from Italy, the UK, Japan, and Canada met in London to discuss Canada’s participation in the fighter jet programme. They welcomed Canada’s participation as an Observer.

The Canadian government wrote, “Observer status will provide Canada with enhanced insight into GCAP and an opportunity to deepen its understanding of the Programme’s governance, capabilities and industrial framework, as well as the related security requirements and wider partnering opportunities.”

This is how we celebrated the arrival of Canada as our first #GCAP Observer, on day 2 of @FIAFarnborough #FIA26

🇮🇹🇯🇵🇬🇧➕🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/aFKL8s0lrl

— GCAP (@GCAP_int) July 21, 2026

The UK government stated that the programme is “even  stronger”  as the UK,  Italy  and Japan welcome Canada  to  the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) as  the  first Observer Nation.   New Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he was “delighted” to announce Canada’s participation.

Paving the way for greater Canadian contribution

For the UK, Italy, and Japan, Canada’s involvement will help strengthen a greater alignment of strategic priorities. It signals the export potential of the future fighter.

According to the British statement, Canada will gain direct insight into GCAP as an observer. This includes capability development, industrial collaboration, and long-term delivery plans.

That said, Canada’s observer status does not afford it a decision-making role. The status gives Canada privileged access to the programme and paves the way for discussions on Canada’s future participation and contribution.

This doesn’t mean that Canada has decided to purchase the fighter jet yet. It is currently moving forward with plans to purchase a mixed fleet of F-35As and Gripen Es. It is unclear how GCAP would fit in Canada’s future force structure.

GCAP is being designed to operate alongside the F-35 5th-generation fighter that all four countries operate or will operate. In July, the UK, Italy, and Japan finalised a £4.6 billion contract to advance the next stage of the aircraft’s development.

Potential for other countries to join GCAP/Tempest

The 6th-generation GCAP/Tempest is the only fully funded large-scale 6th-generation fighter jet programme being designed specifically with exports in mind.

Saudi Arabia, Australia, and India are also known to be interested, with the large wildcard being Germany post the termination of its FCAS programme with France.

While Britain and Italy have openly spoken about being willing to welcome more participants, Japan is known to be uneasy.

The Japan Times reported, “Japan has resisted allowing new countries to join as full partners, citing fears that such a move could delay the timeline to begin mass production in 2035.”