Japan's Ministry of Defense hopes to sign the fighter jet contract "as early as one day earlier, if possible"
During the Munich Security Conference, Japanese Defense Minister Shigeto Kono stated that he will work to sign contracts for a joint development project of next-generation fighter jets with the UK and Italy.
Kono said: "This is an important project with strategic significance connecting the Indo-Pacific region and the Atlantic region of Europe. I plan to have frank consultations with defense ministers of various countries and strive to sign the contract as soon as possible, even if it is just one day earlier."
On Friday, Kono gave a speech at the meeting and held a series of brief meetings with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, UK Defense Minister John Healey, and Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto during the meeting break.
In December 2022, leaders of Japan, Italy, and the UK reached an agreement to jointly develop the next-generation fighter jet within the framework of the Global Combat Air Programme, aiming to complete it by 2035. This fighter jet will replace the F-2 fighter jet in Japan, and the Eurofighter Typhoon in Italy and the UK. The aircraft is expected to become one of the most advanced combat aircraft in service worldwide. However, the UK encountered difficulties in project funding last year, which may delay the completion of the project.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1857074466905289/
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