Edgewing Consortium Secures First GCAP Contract for Future Fighter Development
The Edgewing industrial consortium has been awarded its first contract under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a collaborative effort involving Italy, Japan, and the UK. Announced on April 2, 2026, the GBP686 million (USD907 million) contract was granted by the GCAP Agency, part of the GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO). This contract marks a significant step in the development of a 'sixth-generation' combat aircraft, which is expected to be operational by the mid-2030s. The project also includes the development of unmanned 'loyal wingmen' and other adjunct technologies. The contract aims to consolidate activities previously conducted under separate national contracts into a unified international program, thereby accelerating the pace of delivery. 
