Ukraine may join the development of a sixth-generation fighter jet through the international Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), Defense Express reports.
GCAP is an international alliance between the UK, Japan, and Italy working to create a piloted stealth fighter. The program started in 2022 and aims to replace the Eurofighter Typhoon and Mitsubishi F-2 by 2035.
Importantly, GCAP covers not only the aircraft itself but also supporting systems, including drones. The Turkish Baykar Kızılelma drone is considered an escort drone, a multi-purpose aerial vehicle capable of carrying up to 1,500 kg of weapons: air-to-ground missiles, air-to-air missiles, and bombs.
Particular attention is drawn to the engine for this unmanned aerial vehicle— the fourth prototype of the Kızılelma is equipped with a Ukrainian AI-322F engine from SE Ivchenko-Progress.
Previously, AI-25TLT engines were used. Additionally, Baykar is building a factory in Ukraine, where production of the Kızılelma is planned.
This cooperation opens new opportunities for Ukraine in modern military technologies, aviation industry development, and integration into leading global defense programs.
Earlier, a report emerged saying Ukraine may receive cutting-edge technologies from NATO by the end of 2025. The Alliance has completed testing systems designed to counter Russian guided bombs and strike drones like the Shahed and is considering its delivery to Ukraine.
Ukraine may receive cutting-edge technologies from NATO by the end of 2025. The Alliance has completed testing systems designed to counter Russian guided bombs and strike drones like the Shahed and is considering its delivery to Ukraine.