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BAE Systems PLC, Leonardo Spa, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co Ltd on Friday announced the launch of a new joint venture, Edgewing, which will lead the design and development of the next-generation combat aircraft under the global combat air programme, or GCAP. The joint venture marks a milestone in the trilateral defence collaboration between the UK, Italy and Japan. Edgewing will act as the design authority for the aircraft throughout its lifecycle, with the first in-service date targeted for 2035 and operational use expected beyond 2070. Edgewing will be headquartered in the UK and will operate with integrated teams across all three partner nations to maximise coordination with the GCAP International Government Organisation, GIGO. Marco Zoff, former head of Leonardo’s Aircraft division, has been appointed as Edgewing’s first chief executive officer. He said the new entity aims to ‘set a new global standard for partnership, innovation and trust,’ while contributing to national supply chains and long-term security. ‘We are incredibly excited to launch Edgewing at the heart of the global combat air programme,’ Zoff said. ‘Together, we will push boundaries, embrace agility, and create a legacy of security and prosperity for our nations.’ GIGO Chief Executive Masami Oka welcomed the launch, calling it ‘an important step forward’ for the international joint development initiative and emphasising the importance of effective collaboration between governments and industry. Shares in BAE Systems were down 0.6% at 1,908.85 pence in London on Friday afternoon. Leonardo was up 0.1% at €47.20 in Milan. Copyright 2025 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
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