Bombardier, UK's BAE explore partnership for future combat aircraft programs
Bombardier and BAE Systems signed an agreement to explore developing industrial and technology capabilities for future combat aircraft programs. Airbus executives were reportedly set to discuss possible participation in the Global Combat Air Programme with BAE, the Financial Times reported.
1. Partnership exploration
Bombardier said it signed a strategic agreement with BAE Systems to assess opportunities in research and development, systems integration, workforce and supply-chain development, industrialisation and lifecycle support. The companies will explore capabilities for future combat air programs as Canada deepens its involvement in next-generation initiatives.
2. GCAP context
The agreement comes months after Canada joined the Global Combat Air Programme as an observer. Britain, Italy and Japan launched the program in 2022 to develop a next-generation stealth fighter by 2035. The Financial Times reported that Airbus executives were set to meet BAE counterparts to discuss potential participation.
