Canada

Archived link

Canada has decided to join the Global Combat Air Program, a joint initiative by Japan, Britain and Italy to develop a next-generation fighter jet, becoming the program’s first observer.

Canada is weighing the future purchase of the aircraft, while the three partner countries are seeking to broaden potential export markets and strengthen cooperation among like-minded nations.

Other countries are also believed to be interested in GCAP, raising the prospect of wider participation in the coming years.

...

Observers will neither participate directly in the joint development process nor contribute financially to the program. Although subject to confidentiality requirements, they will be granted access to information on such matters as the fighter’s capabilities and the corporate framework underpinning its development.

Canada’s observer status is intended to pave the way for the possible future purchase of the aircraft. For Japan, Britain and Italy, expanding exports to third countries would help offset the program’s enormous development costs.

...