Italy Criticizes UK Over Fighter Jet Technology Secrecy in GCAP Program

Italian Defense Minister Expresses Frustration Over GCAP Technology Sharing

Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has publicly criticized the United Kingdom for its perceived secrecy regarding technology sharing within the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a trilateral initiative also involving Japan. Crosetto described the UK's approach as 'madness' and warned that withholding advanced military capabilities could inadvertently benefit rival powers such as Russia and China.

This is not the first instance of such criticism from the Italian minister. He previously voiced similar concerns in April 2025, urging the UK to dismantle what he termed 'barriers of selfishness'. Crosetto highlighted that Italy has fully opened access to its technologies, and Japan has done so almost entirely, contrasting this with the UK's more cautious stance.

GCAP: A Trilateral Effort for Next-Generation Air Power

The Global Combat Air Programme aims to develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet by 2035. This advanced aircraft is intended to replace existing fleets, including the Eurofighter Typhoon in service with the Royal Air Force and Italian Air Force, and the Mitsubishi F-2 of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The program is structured as an equal partnership, emphasizing equal access to technology and a 33.3% industrial share for each participating nation.

A treaty formally launching the joint development was signed in December 2023. Under the agreement, the governmental headquarters for the GCAP will be based in the UK, with Japan providing the first CEO and Italy the first business leader.

Italy's Commitment and Financial Contribution

In a move to demonstrate Italy's commitment to transparency and collaboration, Minister Crosetto stated that he has instructed Leonardo, the leading Italian defense firm contributing to the project, to prioritize technology sharing. He expressed hope that this would set an example for other partners to follow.

Italy's financial commitment to the development phase of the GCAP is substantial, estimated at approximately €9 billion until 2035. The total cost for Italy's involvement in the program could potentially reach €18.6 billion.

Ongoing Program Dynamics

Despite the tensions surrounding technology sharing, overall progress on the GCAP appears to be proceeding smoothly, especially when compared to other international defense initiatives such as the French-German-Spanish FCAS program, which has faced its own challenges. The success of the GCAP hinges on effective collaboration and the equitable sharing of advanced technological insights among its partners to achieve its ambitious goals by the target date of 2035.