For the first time, the UK, Italy, and Japan, partners in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), jointly exhibited at the Farnborough Airshow, highlighting significant progress in developing the next-generation combat aircraft.

Throughout the five-day event, GCAP partners revealed a new concept model of the future combat aircraft, featuring an evolved design with a larger wingspan to enhance aerodynamics. This advanced aircraft, expected to enter service by 2035, will be among the world's most sophisticated, interoperable, adaptable, and connected fighter jets. It will feature an integrated hybrid power and propulsion system, advanced weaponry, a software-driven interactive cockpit, and a next-generation radar capable of processing 10,000 times more data than current systems.

Rolls-Royce, representing the 'Power and Propulsion' domain, supported the GCAP stand alongside international partners Avio Aero and IHI. The event also showcased a new interactive GCAP engine model, demonstrating technologies that define sixth-generation power and propulsion. These innovations include generating significantly more electrical energy to power all aircraft systems and preparing for emerging technologies like directed energy weapons.