Another look at the proposed GCAP sixth-generation fighter aircraft. Photo, Japan Ministry of Defense.
SEPT. 04, 2023. Japan is in the process of designing a new air-to-air missile for next-generation fighter jets, co-developed with Britain and Italy, targeting initial deployment by 2035.
The missile is part of the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), a multinational initiative led by the United Kingdom, Japan, and Italy to develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter.
An insider familiar with the situation told Kyodo News, “The plan is to have these anti-air missiles equipped on the fighter jets upon their initial deployment in Japan by 2035.”
According to a collaborative study between Japan and Britain, an indigenous Japanese air-to-air missile could offer improved performance at a reduced cost compared to the European Meteor missile, which is currently in use.
Although Japan’s initial objective is to use domestically developed missiles, there are considerations for incorporating missiles currently used by British and Italian aircraft in the future.
“While Japan initially aims to employ domestically developed missiles for the new fighters, there are considerations for integrating missiles already in use by British and Italian warplanes to enhance the fighters’ capabilities in the future,” the Kyodo News report stated.
This collaboration marks the first time Japan has worked on defence equipment development with countries other than the United States.
The three nations are actively involved in formulating the basic aircraft design and engine specifications. Discussions are also underway to establish a governing body for implementing decisions by the respective defence authorities.
