'Ambitious endeavour': Japan, UK, Italy to develop next-generation fighter jet

Japan, Britain and Italy said Friday they will jointly develop a next-generation fighter jet in a project that holds scope for future cooperation with allies including the United States.

The new jet, to be ready by 2035, is expected to merge the nations' current research into cutting-edge air combat technology, from stealth capacity to high-tech sensors.

In a joint statement, the three countries said the "ambitious endeavour" would "accelerate our advanced military capability and technological advantage" at a time when "threats and aggression are increasing" worldwide.

Their announcement was accompanied by a set of images showing an artist's impression of the sleek new jets flying past Mount Fuji and over London and Rome.

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They did not give a cost estimate, but the three countries are already pouring billions of dollars into high-tech fighter jet development, efforts that will come together under the joint project, called the Global Combat Air Programme.

The US Department of Defence said it supported the project in a separate joint statement with Japan's defence ministry.