Canada will have access to GCAP’s sensitive project information but its observer status will not involve the financial commitments or contract participation that the three partners are tied to. However, it is designed to be a pathway for potential deeper involvement in the future.
Canada expects to contribute flight simulation training technology, said a second official.
The announcement is expected to be made on the sidelines of the Farnborough International Airshow — one of the world’s largest aerospace industry and trade exhibitions — taking place July 20-24 in the U.K. It is set to see major delegations from across NATO and allied countries, including Japan and Canada, whose McGuinty will attend.
Ottawa pushes to diversify
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government has been pushing the three allies for months to be allowed to take part in the project.
Ottawa is looking to diversify its procurement as part of Canada’s defense industrial strategy, which Carney announced in February.
The Canadian government “expects sixth-gen air combat capabilities to build on fifth-gen strengths by enhancing stealth and communications, and introduce advances in AI, crewed and uncrewed teaming and multi-domain connectivity,” said the first official. Canada is acquiring fifth-generation Lockheed Martin F-35s.
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