Global Combat Air Programme Headquarters Opens in U.K.'s Reading City

A new facility that will function as the headquarters of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to support the delivery of a supersonic stealth fighter jet opened in the UK’s Reading City on July 7.

The GCAP is a collaboration between the UK, Japan, and Italy, represented by their respective companies – BAE Systems, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and Leonardo.

According to UK.GOV, this flagship HQ will play a central role in delivering a next-generation supersonic stealth fighter aircraft equipped with cutting-edge technologies. The facility brings together hundreds of skilled personnel and will house both the GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO) and a joint venture company, Edgewing. Edgewing unites BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. (Japan) to lead the aircraft’s design and development.

Currently, GCAP supports over 3,500 UK jobs and 1,000 apprenticeships, with more expected as the programme expands. Recent government data shows that defence industry jobs in the South East have increased by 4,500 in the past year, contributing to a regional total of 38,700.

Opened by Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle MP, the Reading headquarters marks a major milestone in advancing innovation, international collaboration, and defence-led economic growth.

The Strategic Defence Review highlights that GCAP not only enhances military capability but also plays a key role in the government’s “Plan for Change” by sustaining a world-leading skilled workforce. Nationwide, Ministry of Defence spending now supports 151,000 jobs—an increase of 14,000 over the past year.

The launch of the GCAP HQ aligns with the UK government’s historic commitment to raise defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, reinforcing national security and strengthening international defence partnerships.