GCAP / Tempest
Type: Multirole Fighter
Domain: air
Country of Origin: United Kingdom / Italy / Japan
Manufacturer: BAE Systems / Leonardo / Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Overview
The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), formerly Tempest, is a sixth-generation fighter aircraft being developed jointly by the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan. It will feature advanced AI-assisted decision making, optional manning capability, directed energy weapons, and a revolutionary sensor fusion architecture. Planned to enter service in the mid-2030s.
Technical Specifications
| crew | 1 (optionally unmanned) |
|---|---|
| engine | Advanced variable cycle engine |
| sensors | Multi-spectral distributed aperture system |
| stealth | All-aspect very low observable |
| weapons | Internal bays + directed energy |
| features | AI co-pilot, directed energy weapons, adaptive camouflage |
| max_speed | Supercruise capable |
| entry_service | 2035 target |
Operators
- Italy
- Japan
- United Kingdom
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