18-07-2025
UK on way to flying first home-designed fighter jet in four decades
MoD has released image of stealth combat aircraft demonstrator
The UK has hit a significant landmark in a next-generation stealth combat aircraft project, with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) revealing designs for its first domestically-developed crewed supersonic combat demonstrator in over four decades.
A joint venture between BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, MBDA UK and the MoD, the jet is anticipated to take to the skies within the next three years as t wo-thirds of its structural weight is now in the production phase.
The main body, wings and tail fins of the aircraft are currently being assembled using state-of-the-art digital and robotic manufacturing at sites in Lancashire. The design aims to test a broad spectrum of technologies such as stealth-compatible features and cutting-edge flight controls.
Test pilots have already logged over 300 hours in a high-fidelity simulator built specifically for the demonstrator, while engineers continue to utilise simulated flight trials to evaluate performance, test control systems, and collect flight data ahead of the inaugural takeoff.
The demonstrator forms part of the UK's contribution to the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a collaboration with Japan and Italy that seeks to deliver a sixth-generation fighter aircraft by the mid-2030s, reports the Express.
It is considered crucial for mitigating risks in future aircraft development, ensuring Britain maintains its leading position in aerospace advancement.
Tony Godbold, the Future Combat Air Systems Delivery Director at BAE Systems, remarked: "This significant and challenging project will deliver the UK's first crewed combat demonstrator aircraft in four decades.
"As well as developing a unique aircraft, we're building the technical foundations, workforce readiness and digital maturity essential to deliver the next generation of combat air capability."
The initiative also aims to slash the time and cost of constructing future military jets through various methods including model-based systems engineering, alongside 3D printing, cobotics, and immersive simulation.
Since its inception in 2018, the project has seen contributions from over 1,000 apprentices and graduates, more than 600 suppliers, 91 small and medium-sized enterprises, and 26 academic institutions.
The demonstrator represents the UK's inaugural manned supersonic combat air venture since the Experimental Aircraft Programme (EAP), which was instrumental in the development of the Eurofighter Typhoon and first flew in 1986.
"I am delighted that today, BAE Systems and the Ministry of Defence can share this important update," expressed Richard Berthon, Director Future Combat Air at the MoD.
"For the first time, people can see how this cutting-edge demonstrator aircraft will look when it takes to the skies.
"The Combat Air Flying Demonstrator is providing invaluable lessons on future combat air delivery and equipping our people with the skills they will need to deliver GCAP."
