GCAP, the sixth-generation fighter, presents the bill: the budget allocates over 47 million over two years
This is an international collaboration programme aimed at developing a new-generation aircraft system by 2035
The GCAP, the sixth-generation fighter jet that Italia is to develop alongside Japan and the United Kingdom, reveals the figures: the budget is set to place a greater burden on public finances than currently anticipated. This amounts to 32.3 million for 2027 and 15.5 for 2028, totalling over 47 million over two years. This is an international collaboration programme aimed at developing a new-generation aircraft system by 2035.
As clarified in the technical report accompanying the draft Budget Bill, the additional costs stem from unforeseen developments in GIGO’s administrative budget, which are broken down into the three main expenditure categories set out in the organisation’s Financial Rules.
GIGO (an acronym for GCAP International Government Organisation) is the international governmental organisation established to manage, coordinate and oversee the GCAP (Global Combat Air Programme).
Staff remuneration
The increase from £42.8 million to £65.7 million (+54 per cent) reflects the expansion of GIGO’s workforce from 180 to 300 staff, the adjustment to the rate of inflation recorded in the UK (estimated at between 1.5% and 1.8% per annum) and the inclusion of location-related allowances (social security, healthcare and education costs) payable to staff.
Other operating payments
The increase from £6.9 million to £14.9 million (+116 per cent) is linked to the outsourcing of specialist services that cannot be deferred (cyber security, IT management, legal advice) required during the start-up phase, as well as a 5 per cent ‘contingency’ provision.
