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UK's £28 Billion Shortfall Delays Next-Gen Fighter Jet

2/1/2026

39 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer faces diplomatic issues with Japan and Italy due to delays in funding the UK's next-generation fighter jet, the Global Combat Aircraft Programme (GCAP), known as Tempest.
The signing of a trilateral contract has been postponed while the UK finalizes its defence investment plan.
A £28 billion budget shortfall delays GCAP funding, threatening the 2035 delivery timeline, alarming industry sources.

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Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer faces diplomatic issues with Japan and Italy due to delays in funding the UK's next-generation fighter jet, the Global Combat Aircraft Programme (GCAP), known as Tempest.
The signing of a trilateral contract has been postponed while the UK finalizes its defence investment plan.
A £28 billion budget shortfall delays GCAP funding, threatening the 2035 delivery timeline, alarming industry sources.