The next fighter jet planned for the RAF could be under review, as the ‘absolute beast’ Tempest stealth fighter jet would be a technological marvel but could cost billions
Image: PA)
The RAF’s next planned fighter jet has been dubbed an “absolute beast” – but there are concerns it could be scrapped
The models for the Tempest stealth fighter jet design have already been produced, but the future of the hugely expensive aircraft might be in doubt. Currently, the UK-led development project – Italy and Japan signed a treaty with the UK in December last year – is due to come into service in 2035. But last week it was revealed the £12billion BAE Systems deal could reportedly be used to modernise the armed forces.
This was being pushed by the deputy chief of defence staff General Dame Sharon Nesmith, and further reports indicate the project could face delays.
(
Image:
PA)
BAE believes the project will continue to go ahead, however. BAE has said: “In the 18 months since the launch of the Global Combat Air Programme, we’ve been working closely with our industrial partners in Italy and Japan under the collaboration agreement, and also with the three governments, to understand and align requirements for a next generation combat aircraft.
“The new model, unveiled at Farnborough International Airshow, shows notable progress in the design and concepting of this future fighter jet. We’ll continue to test and evolve the design, as we move closer towards the next phase of the programme.”
The Tempest is a planned “sixth-generation” aircraft, of which joint development is set to begin in 2025, meaning that it is part of the crop of expected fighters that will replace the planes currently in use. It is forecast to replace the RAF Typhoon and will operate as both a fighter and a bomber.
(
Image:
PA)
The editor of Aerospace magazine, Tim Robinson, told the Times that the Tempest could be an “absolute beast of a combat aircraft, future-proofed with room for lots of additional growth”.
In December last year, then defence secretary Grant Shapps said the Tempest was a “6th-generation jet, supersonic equipped with state-of-the-art censors”. It will have a powerful radar system that is capable of 10,000 times more data than current systems, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) hassaid.
Pilots, meanwhile, will be able to use virtual reality in the aircraft’s digital cockpit, with vital information displayed directly in front of them. AI will be used to maximise the effects of the on-board weapons system. The MoD awarded the contract to BAE Systems in collaboration with Leonardo UK, missile maker MBDA UK, and Rolls-Royce, as well as industry partners from Japan and Italy.
Some of the technology used will be akin to a Formula 1 car, in terms of its exhaust and air intakes. Japan, Italy, and the UK are showing the Tempest concept this week at Farnborough International Airshow, which was visited by defence secretary John Healey.
The government has already launched its Strategic Defence Review this month. Confirming the Tempest programme would be part of the review, the MOD reiterated the plan was a “root and branch” look at all areas of the UK’s defence capabilities, needs and resources.
“Our armed forces need to be better ready to fight, more integrated and more innovative,” Healey said when the review was announced publicly on July 16. “We need clearer accountability, faster delivery, less waste and better value for money.
Also today, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the UK was “at the cutting edge of defence and aerospace manufacturing”.
“We live in a dangerous, volatile and increasingly insecure world,” the PM said. “And that makes events like this, and the role that you play ever more important for the defence and security of our country.”
