In an interview during his visit to Tokyo, Reynolds described the GCAP as a "complex" project but underscored the vast opportunities for industrial collaboration in various defense sectors, according to Kyodo News.
On Thursday, Japan and the UK reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the trilateral partnership with Italy to develop the next-generation fighter jet by 2035. The confirmation came following a meeting between Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy in Tokyo.
The initiative marks Japan’s first major defense equipment development project with a nation other than the United States, signifying a shift in Tokyo’s defense strategy.
“I see defense and security in particular as being a focus of collaboration between our two countries, with, again, exceptional potential for the future,” Reynolds stated.
Last week, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and British Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds held discussions with Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Trade and Industry Minister Yoji Muto at the inaugural "two-plus-two" economic dialogue between the two countries.
Both Japan and the UK, key security allies of the United States, have strengthened their defense cooperation in recent years, particularly through expanded joint military exercises and security initiatives.