BAE Systems has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Canadian business jet manufacturer Bombardier to explore potential collaboration on next-generation combat aircraft capabilities in Canada.
Under the agreement, the two companies will assess opportunities for cooperation across aircraft and mission system design, systems integration, digital engineering, advanced manufacturing, product support, sustainment, and security. They also plan to establish a collaborative framework aligned with future defence capability requirements, government priorities, and national industrial objectives.
The agreement follows Canada’s participation in the trilateral Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) as an observer, providing Ottawa with direct insight into the programme’s development, industrial partnerships, and long-term delivery strategy.
BAE Systems is one of GCAP’s three principal industrial partners, alongside Italy’s Leonardo and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. The programme aims to develop a sixth-generation fighter aircraft for the UK, Italy, and Japan.
Global Combat Air Programme
Launched in 2022 by the UK, Italy, and Japan, GCAP is focused on developing a sixth-generation stealth fighter incorporating advanced digital engineering, artificial intelligence, and next-generation combat technologies. The aircraft is targeted to enter operational service by 2035.
The future fighter is expected to replace the Eurofighter Typhoon fleets operated by the Royal Air Force and Italian Air Force, as well as Japan’s ageing Mitsubishi F-2 multirole fighters.
Designed as part of a broader system-of-systems architecture, the aircraft will be capable of operating alongside crewed and uncrewed platforms across air, land, maritime, space, and cyber domains. Its advanced digital architecture is intended to enable secure, high-capacity information sharing and AI-supported decision-making, enhancing operational coordination and combat effectiveness.
Canada’s growing interest in GCAP comes amid its ongoing review of F-35 procurement plans and efforts to diversify international defence partnerships. Ottawa has indicated that engagement with the programme could complement its existing defence cooperation initiatives while creating opportunities for domestic aerospace industry participation.
The Royal Canadian Air Force received its first two F-35 fighter aircraft this month. Canada originally selected 88 F-35s to replace its ageing CF-18 Hornet fleet but is reassessing the full procurement following its initial commitment to acquire 16 aircraft.
The potential collaboration between BAE Systems and Bombardier could create new opportunities for Canada’s aerospace and defence industrial base, particularly in advanced aircraft engineering, manufacturing, systems integration, and long-term combat aircraft support.
