Saudi Arabia could join the development of a sixth-generation fighter jet

Saudi Arabia has signed a declaration of intent to join the sixth generation fighter programme. The information was commented by the British Ministry of Defence.

Here's What We Know

The UK has confirmed the signing of the declaration, but it does not mean that Saudi Arabia immediately becomes a new member of the project. It will conduct a feasibility study of the partnership and will consider the possibility of cooperation in the future.

The signing of the declaration was announced by Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. According to him, the comprehensive cooperation will strengthen Saudi Arabia's defence capabilities through joint production and development for future air systems.

At the moment it is difficult to determine the scope of Saudi Arabia's partnership. It could be joint work on FCAS, as Sweden did, or on Tempest/Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) together with Italy and Japan.

Source: Janes