GCAP: industry partners launch Edgewing joint venture company

The creation of Edgewing represents a significant step in advancing GCAP’s aim to introduce a new combat air system into service by 2035. It also marks a new level of trilateral industrial collaboration between Europe and Asia.

Marco Zoff, formerly Managing Director of Leonardo’s Aircraft Division, has been appointed as the first Chief Executive Officer of Edgewing. He brings with him considerable experience in international aerospace leadership and cooperation.

“We are incredibly excited to launch Edgewing at the heart of the Global Combat Air Programme,” said Marco Zoff. “By uniting the strengths of our talented people in UK, Italy, and Japan, we are not only delivering the next-generation combat air system—we aim to set a new global standard for partnership, innovation and trust.”

Zoff emphasised Edgewing’s focus on agility, supply chain development and long-term national benefits. “Together, we will push boundaries, embrace agility, enhance our national supply chains and create a legacy of security and prosperity for our nations and future generations,” he added.

Masami Oka, Chief Executive of the GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO), welcomed the joint venture’s launch. “We welcome the launch of Edgewing, which represents an important step forward in what will be a truly international joint development programme,” he stated.

He highlighted the need for close collaboration between GIGO and the new company. “Effective and empowered collaboration between the GIGO and Edgewing will be critical for the success of GCAP. I am confident that together we can establish a new model of partnership that will promote international integration, mutual trust and a shared commitment to our future,” Oka said.

Edgewing will operate joint teams across the UK, Italy, and Japan, with its headquarters based in the United Kingdom. This structure aims to ensure strong alignment with GIGO and seamless coordination across partner nations.

GCAP plays a vital role in securing the long-term defence and economic strength of each participating country. Through knowledge sharing and technology transfer, the programme will support sovereign combat air capabilities and foster resilient supply chains for the future.