Defence Secretary Ben Wallace in Japan for DSEI in Tokyo 160323 CREDIT MOD — The three countries showed off some of the ground-breaking technology that the Global Combat Air Programme has produced (Picture: MOD).

UK, Japan and Italy join forces to show off new tech at Tokyo DSEI event

The UK, Japan and Italy have joined forces to showcase a new joint project for the first time since it was announced last year.

At DSEI Japan, the three countries showed off some of the ground-breaking technology that the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) has produced, as well as a new visual identity and logo for the scheme.

Announced in 2022, GCAP is aiming to deliver a next-generation aircraft by 2035.

On display at the event in Tokyo was a new 3m model of the latest aircraft design, as well as a cockpit demonstrator and immersive simulators.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said the programme is an "enduring, strategic partnership that will see the creation of a sixth-generation fighter".

"It's exciting to be working alongside Japan and Italy and see this project fuse the best of all our technologies," he said.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and RAF Chief Sir Mike Wigston in Japan for DSEI in Tokyo 160323 CREDIT MOD — RAF Chief Sir Mike Wigston joined the Defence Secretary on his visit to Japan (Picture: MOD).

"Locking in a partnership of liberal and open democracies who believe in the rule of law."

As well as showing off the latest tech, industry partners made several agreements, furthering the work of the programme.

This included BAE Systems, MHI and Leonardo continuing to work closely together on the next steps in the GCAP with a shared ambition for a joint industrial arrangement.

It will also see Rolls-Royce, IHI and Avio Aero setting out the terms under which they will pool their expertise to design, manufacture and test a full-scale future combat engine demonstrator.

Lastly, it saw Mitsubishi Electric (Japan) & Leonardo UK, and Leonardo and Elettronica (Italy) agreeing to form a special domain to develop advanced onboard electronics.

During his visit, the Defence Secretary had a trilateral meeting with his Japanese and Italian counterparts – which was also attended by the air force chiefs from each of the three countries.

Mr Wallace also discussed the UK's recent activity with Japanese forces, including Exercise Vigilant Isles and Exercise Keen Sword.

Finally, he visited 1st Airborne Brigade, which hosted British Army personnel for Exercise Vigilant Isles in 2022.