India aims to join the UK-Japan-Italy-led GCAP sixth-gen fighter programme to modernise its air power, boost self-reliance, and shift defence partnerships.

Technical, Political and Industrial Hurdles

India has shown interest in participating in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), which is developed by the United Kingdom, Japan, and Italy. Aiming to provide an advanced combat aircraft by 2035, the plan combines next-generation propulsion, stealth, and artificial intelligence, among other technologies. India’s possible participation in this international project shows a larger desire to revamp its air force and take a more active part in world military innovation.

India’s inclusion is not without its complications. One of GCAP’s founding members, Japan, has reportedly voiced concerns about intellectual property protection due to India’s longstanding defence ties with Russia. Additionally, integrating India into the programme would require complex adjustments in project management, industrial contribution planning, and security protocols.

Strategic Consequences of Indian Participation

Should India be admitted into GCAP, it would represent a major change in its defence alliances—away from conventional suppliers like Russia and towards closer alignment with Western military-industrial complexes. Such involvement might open access to real-time cooperation with top military companies, superior manufacturing methods, and sensitive technology. It might also improve compatibility with important Indo-Pacific area allies, hence supporting the geopolitical counterweight to China.

India’s Broader Defence Realignment

India’s drive to join GCAP is part of its long-term plan to build indigenous capabilities under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-reliant India) effort and lessen reliance on foreign suppliers. It also fits with Delhi’s growing focus on high-tech military innovation and worldwide defence cooperation.

Japan had refused Saudi Demand to join the GCAP

Saudi Arabia has also shown great desire to join the GCAP. Although the UK and Italy have indicated a willingness to include Saudi Arabia, Japan has been more reluctant. Japanese worries mostly centre on possible problems resulting from broadening cooperation, particularly those connected to technology transfer, project deadlines, and the protection of sensitive data. Saudi Arabia is also well-known for its ties with China.

Talks on Saudi Arabia’s participation are still under running as early as 2025. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in January 2025 that Saudi Arabia should be included, as introducing a new member would need thorough discussions among the current allies. Later, in February 2025, news stories said Japan and Italy had turned down Saudi Arabia’s GCAP membership request, expressing worries about the kingdom’s present industrial capacity and possible effects on the advancement of the project. 

Saudi Arabia is nevertheless eager to join GCAP despite these obstacles; authorities underlined the need of localising programme components to build native military capabilities. Ongoing talks and strategic concerns among the participating countries shape the scenario now developing. 

Author: Özgür Ekşi