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Italy Supports Saudi Arabia Joining Fighter-Jet Program, PM Meloni Says

Prime Minister Meloni confirms Italy's support for Saudi par

Italy Supports Saudi Arabia Joining Fighter-Jet Program, PM Meloni Says
John Brad
2026-04-28 02:31
32

Europe — Ekhbary News Agency

Italy has expressed its support for Saudi Arabia's potential inclusion in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a significant international initiative focused on developing next-generation fighter jets. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni confirmed this stance, signaling a potential expansion of the strategic defense partnership.

Global Combat Air Programme's Current Participants and Goals

The Global Combat Air Programme currently involves a tripartite partnership between the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan. This ambitious collaboration aims to deliver a new stealth fighter aircraft, equipped with supersonic capabilities, by the year 2035. The program represents a major effort to advance aerial combat technology and maintain air superiority for participating nations.

Strategic Implications of Saudi Arabia's Potential Involvement

Saudi Arabia's potential entry into the GCAP would broaden the program's scope and likely enhance its financial and technological resources. While specific details of Saudi Arabia's role remain to be determined, its participation could further solidify international defense cooperation and strategic alliances in the Middle East and beyond. The initiative seeks to create a cutting-edge combat aircraft designed to meet future security challenges.

Keywords: # Italy # Saudi Arabia # fighter jet # Global Combat Air Programme # GCAP # Meloni # defense