New GCAP fighter concept unveiled at Farnborough
PARTNER nations of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan along with lead industry partners BAE Systems, Leonardo, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) respectively exhibited together for the first time at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024. Furthermore, GCAP unveiled a brand new concept model of the future GCAP fighter.The latest model features a further evolved design with a larger wingspan compared to previous concepts which would improve the aerodynamics of the future combat aircraft.
Engineers from across BAE Systems, Leonardo and MHI have been working together under a collaboration agreement on the design and development of the future combat aircraft using a range of innovative digital tools and techniques, including computer based modelling and virtual reality to evolve the aircraft’s design during its concept phase.
The combat aircraft, set to be in service in 2035, will be one of the world’s most advanced, interoperable, adaptable and connected fighter jets in service, boasting an intelligent weapons system, a software-driven interactive cockpit, integrated sensors and a powerful next generation radar capable of providing 10,000 times more data than current systems, giving it a battle-winning advantage.
The unveiling follows the new British government’s move to review the programme as part of a comprehensive review of its military, which could possibly leave the programme’s fate hanging in the balance.-shp/adj/dl (Pix:GCAP)
