Burnham signals ‘openness’ to Germany joining GCAP jet fighter program

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has expressed Britain's willingness to allow Germany to join the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a sixth-generation jet fighter initiative led by the U.K., Italy, and Japan. During a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin, Burnham confirmed the openness to Germany's participation.

This move comes after Berlin reportedly held exploratory talks about joining GCAP following the collapse of Germany's combat aircraft plans with France. A senior German official stated that Germany is in the early stages of reevaluating its options and has not made a final decision. The chancellor prefers a European solution rather than Germany acting independently.

Canada recently became the first observer nation in GCAP, potentially paving the way for full membership. Other potential members include Saudi Arabia. However, the GCAP members have been cautious about opening the club due to concerns about reduced work for individual partners or delays in the program. Italian defense firm Leonardo CEO warned that any new member needs to join within the next 12 months.

Burnham also highlighted a new partnership with Germany to counter hybrid threats from countries like Russia, with defense ministries tasked to explore ways to expand this collaboration.