Japan to jointly develop next-generation fighter jet with UK and Italy by 2035

Japan announced that it will jointly develop its next-generation fighter jet with the U.K. and Italy as Tokyo looks to expand defense cooperation beyond its traditional ally, the United States. The deal aims to put an advanced front-line fighter into operation by 2035.

Against the backdrop of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and intensifying Chinese military activity around Japan and Taiwan, the agreement may help Japan counter the growing military might of its bigger neighbour. The three countries, however, have yet to work out some details of how the project will proceed, including work shares and where the development will take place.