Three Axis Powers, Preparing to Build a Sixth-Generation Fighter?
The European sixth-generation fighter "Global Combat Air Programme" might consider changing its name to the "Axis Powers Fighter" project.
According to Reuters, on the 4th, Italian Defense Minister Crosetto told the media that Germany may apply to join the next-generation fighter "Global Combat Air Programme" (GCAP) led by Italy, the UK, and Japan.
This news is quite interesting: If we set aside the UK, once Germany chooses to join Italy and Japan's sixth-generation fighter project, it would truly be a reunion of the Axis Powers.
In fact, Germany originally planned to jointly develop another European sixth-generation fighter project, "Future Combat Air System" (FCAS), with France. However, recently, Germany and France have had disputes over the division of project leadership, both expressing the idea of "breaking up if they can't reach an agreement," so Germany has now turned to the "Global Combat Air Programme" led by the UK, Italy, and Japan.
However, even if Germany successfully switches sides, the prospects for the UK, Italy, and Japan's sixth-generation fighter project are not necessarily optimistic.
In recent times, the UK, Italy, and Japan have also had disputes over technical contributions, cost sharing, and share allocation issues, and there were rumors that Japan wanted to lower the project's priority.
Additionally, according to Reuters' report, in addition to Germany, countries such as Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Australia have also shown interest in the UK, Italy, and Japan's sixth-generation fighter project — so, although it's not clear yet, if Germany joins, whether this sixth-generation fighter can be built or not, but this situation has become more complicated.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1850666510158860/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.