GCAP timeline could shrink ‘by a couple of years,’ Leonardo CEO says

Lorenzo Mariani said the sixth-gen fighter could enter service two years ahead of its 2035 target date, but only if some requirements for the “initial version” were altered.

Lorenzo Mariani said the sixth-gen fighter could enter service two years ahead of its 2035 target date, but only if some requirements for the “initial version” were altered.

This development reflects broader trends in defence procurement and industry consolidation as governments worldwide increase defence spending in response to evolving security threats.

Source: Breaking Defense. Read the full report at https://breakingdefense.com/2026/07/gcap-timeline-could-shrink-by-a-couple-of-years-<a href="/manufacturers/leonardo" class="manufacturer-link">leonardo</a>-ceo-says/