A major milestone was reached in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) with the official launch of Edgewing, a newly established joint venture formed by BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. (Japan). Announced on June 20, 2025, the launch marks a significant step forward in developing a next-generation combat air system under a trilateral industrial partnership spanning Europe and Asia.

Edgewing will be responsible for the design, development, and long-term stewardship of the future combat aircraft, with an expected operational lifespan beyond 2070. The aircraft is targeted to enter service by 2035, and Edgewing will serve as the design authority throughout the system’s lifecycle.

The company will operate across the UK, Italy, and Japan, with its headquarters based in the United Kingdom, ensuring close collaboration with the GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO), which oversees the program on behalf of the partner nations.

Leadership and Vision

Marco Zoff, previously Managing Director of Leonardo’s Aircraft Division, has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Edgewing. In a statement, Zoff highlighted the scale and ambition of the project:

“We are incredibly excited to launch Edgewing at the heart of the Global Combat Air Programme.

By uniting the strengths of our talented people in the UK, Italy, and Japan, we are not only delivering the next-generation combat air system — we aim to set a new global standard for partnership, innovation and trust. Together, we will push boundaries, embrace agility, enhance our national supply chains and create a legacy of security and prosperity for our nations and future generations.”

Masami Oka, Chief Executive of GIGO, also welcomed the launch of Edgewing, calling it:

“An important step forward in what will be a truly international joint development programme.

Effective and empowered collaboration between the GIGO and Edgewing will be critical for the success of GCAP. I am confident that together we can establish a new model of partnership that will promote international integration, mutual trust and a shared commitment to our future.”

Strategic Significance

The formation of Edgewing signals deeper international cooperation on defense innovation, technology sharing, and industrial integration. GCAP is positioned as a transformative initiative for all three nations — not only in terms of military capabilities, but also in strengthening national supply chains, supporting domestic aerospace industries, and driving long-term economic benefits.

Through sustained collaboration, the partners aim to deliver a sovereign, future-ready air combat platform while setting a precedent for multinational defense programs in the decades ahead.