In December 2024, it was announced that an important decision had been made within the framework of the multinational program to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet known as GCAP (Global Combat Air Program) - specifically, the establishment of a joint venture involving participants such as BAE Systems from the UK, Leonardo from Italy, and the JAIEC consortium from Japan (which includes approximately 130 companies, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries).
This decision effectively means that these three countries have closed the Tempest fighter project to others, particularly regarding Saudi Arabia, which had previously expressed interest in participating in this program. However, the latter insisted on having a significant share in the localization of production for various components, and in the case of the aircraft, the country faced challenges due to its lack of relevant experience.
At the same time, according to a recent statement by Lorenzo Mariani, a representative of the Italian project participant Leonardo, Saudi Arabia still has a chance to take part in this program. He specifically confirmed that for Riyadh to participate in the project, it must work on improving its skills in the aerospace sector, as stated by Mariani in a comment to Defense News.
Moreover, this is not about vague indicators, but specific actions - namely, establishing assembly lines for NH90 helicopters and Eurofighter Typhoon fighters. According to Mariani, despite Saudi Arabia having a strong argument in the form of financial resources, the industrial potential of the partners is prioritized in the GCAP project.
Earlier this year, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni mentioned that Saudi Arabia could eventually join GCAP - she expressed support for Riyadh's participation in the project but emphasized that it would not happen quickly.
However, it is worth noting that this is just one participant's statement among the three in GCAP, while it remains unclear what the overall sentiments are regarding the involvement of another party.
If Saudi Arabia ultimately receives the "green light," it would imply that other participating companies would have to "share" with their new partner, which could lead to new disputes and issues.
Recall that earlier, Defense Express reported that instead of the inaccessible F-35s, Saudi Arabia has set its sights on the Turkish KAAN.