Why Japan’s fighter jet future looks ‘more optimistic’ with Canada’s entry

AI Summary

Canada's participation in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is seen as a positive boost for Japan's plans to replace its ageing F-2 fighter jets. Germany is also exploring joining the multinational programme, which includes Britain and Italy, aiming to develop next-generation fighter jets.

Canada’s decision to take a role in the next-generation Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) has eased Japan’s fears over its fighter jet future, while Germany is also reported to be exploring whether it could join the project that also involves Britain and Italy. The moves could give fresh momentum to GCAP, a programme to develop a next-generation fighter that Japan sees as critical to replacing its ageing F-2 fleet and avoiding a gap in its air defences, analysts say. Tokyo has been frustrated...