Canada Joins Global Combat Air Program as Observer Amid Defense Strategy Shift
Canada has been approved as the first official observer of the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), a collaborative defense initiative led by Italy, Japan, and the UK. This program focuses on developing a sixth-generation combat aircraft. As an observer, Canada gains access to capability development and industrial collaboration insights but does not have decision-making authority. This move aligns with Canada's strategy to diversify its defense partnerships beyond the U.S., especially in light of recent trade tensions with the Trump administration. The GCAP aims to replace existing aircraft fleets in the partner countries by 2035. 
