UK Ready to Allow Germany to Join Sixth-Generation Tempest Fighter Jet Project

Amid discussions about a possible German exit from the French-led SCAF program, the United Kingdom is considering involving Berlin in its own GCAP program, which currently includes the UK, Japan, and Italy.

The Telegraph reported on this.

According to the outlet, the final decision on Germany’s participation will be made by the governments, but the country’s role in the program would be limited, as the project is already at an advanced stage. At this point, Germany could join as a buyer and participate in certain aspects of the aircraft’s development, particularly in creating drone platforms planned for use as escort systems for the fighter jet.

Germany’s involvement would be a success for the UK and its partners, improving the program’s economic outlook. However, there are currently no strong indications that Berlin intends to exit the SCAF program, which is being developed jointly with France and Spain.

The situation is further complicated by disputes between German officials and Airbus, which represents German industry, and the French company Dassault Aviation, which is demanding greater control and a larger share of the work in the program. French leaders have tried to persuade Berlin to remain in the SCAF program, but the discussions remain contentious.

Dassault is insisting on a change to the management model, proposing an approach similar to that of the nEUROn unmanned demonstrator program, where one partner had clear leadership. Germany and Airbus reject such demands, warning of serious consequences for German industry’s participation if concessions are made to France.

Additionally, the situation is further strained by differing national requirements: France insists that the NGF be capable of nuclear missions and carrier-based operations – needs that Germany and Spain do not share.

GCAP (Tempest)

Tempest is the United Kingdom’s program to develop a sixth‑generation fighter intended to replace the Eurofighter Typhoon in the British Air Force after 2035. The project began in 2018 and is positioned as a modern combat platform of the future, capable of integrating unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, high‑technology sensors, and advanced weapons.

The Tempest fighter is being developed with considerations for low observability, supersonic speed, and high maneuverability.

Tempest is part of the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), which includes the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan. To coordinate the development, a joint venture called Edgewing has been established, bringing together BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co (Japan), as well as Rolls-Royce and the Japanese company IHI for engines.

Among Tempest’s key innovations are the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles into combat operations, modular weapon and sensor systems, artificial intelligence for data processing and enhancing crew situational awareness, and compatibility with allied forces on a NATO-wide scale.

A demonstrator aircraft for Tempest is planned to be built by 2027, with operational service expected by 2035.