UK signals ‘openness’ to Germany joining GCAP fighter jet programme

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced on Thursday during a visit to Berlin that the UK is open to Germany joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a trilateral initiative with Italy and Japan to build a next-generation fighter jet. Speaking at the Chancellery alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during his first trip to the German capital since taking office, Burnham indicated a willingness to expand the international warplane project.

The potential inclusion of Germany marks a prospective expansion for the GCAP coalition, which previously welcomed Canada as an observer in July. The project aims to develop advanced military aviation technology collaboratively among partner nations.