Concerns Over Tech Sharing in GCAP
ROME — Italy’s Minister of Defense has voiced concerns that the United Kingdom is not adequately sharing its advanced technology within the framework of the tri-nation Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), labeling the perceived British reticence as “madness.”
Guido Crosetto, the Italian defense minister, emphasized the risk of withholding crucial technological advancements from its partners, Italy and Japan, involved in the development of the sixth-generation fighter jet. He suggested that such actions could inadvertently benefit global adversaries.
“It’s a huge favor to the Russians and the Chinese,” Crosetto remarked in an interview with Defense News.
This is not the first time Crosetto has criticized the UK for its hesitance in sharing GCAP technology. He previously highlighted the issue in April 2025 when speaking to Reuters about the need for the UK to overcome a “barriers of selfishness.”
At that time, Crosetto pointed out, “Italy has completely broken down these barriers, and Japan has almost done the same. It appears that the UK is significantly more hesitant, which is a mistake because selfishness is the worst enemy of nations.”
When recently asked by Defense News if his views on the UK’s reluctance had shifted, Crosetto confirmed that his position remained unchanged. “They don’t want to do it,” he stated, adding that “At a moment like this, not sharing technology with allies is madness.”
Crosetto also mentioned his proactive approach in setting a precedent with Leonardo, the leading Italian company in the jet’s development. “I have ordered Leonardo to share its technology, let’s see if the others follow. That way we take the first step,” he explained.
Comparative Progress in International Fighter Programs
The Italian minister’s remarks were made amidst what seems to be smooth progress in the GCAP, especially when compared to the French-German-Spanish Future Combat Air System (FCAS), which has been marred by disputes over work sharing.
In the United Kingdom, a dedicated tri-nation GCAP government office is actively collaborating with industrial consortia responsible for the jet’s sensors, propulsion, and integration, aiming for the aircraft’s completion by 2035.
However, a recent setback occurred this month when it was revealed that Italy’s estimated costs for the design and development of the jet had surged from the initially forecasted €6 billion ($7.1 billion) in 2021 to €18.6 billion. This significant increase has sparked criticism from Italian opposition parties.
Despite these financial concerns, a recent meeting between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae indicated a positive outlook on the GCAP’s progress. Both leaders “expressed satisfaction for the progress of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP),” underscoring a shared commitment to the project amidst the challenges.
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Jamal Peterson reports on defense, aerospace, and tech policy. With a military background and a strategic mind, he dissects complex subjects with clarity, offering readers sharp, reliable insights.
