UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is due to visit an RAF base today (Friday December 9) to launch the first major phase of the programme, which aims to develop the next generation of combat aircrafts in collaboration with Italy and Japan.
Downing Street is hoping that the jets, called Tempest in the UK, will take to the skies by 2035 and serve as a successor to the RAF Typhoon.
By leveraging new technologies such as advanced sensors and innovative data systems, the aircrafts of the future are set to ensure the UK and allies are “outpacing and out-manoeuvring those who seek to do us harm”, Sunak said.
Artist impression of a fighter jet over UK Parliament
Image credit: PA Media
The programme will build on the substantial progress already made in the UK by BAE Systems, Leonardo...