Saudis Seek Inclusion: Joining Forces with UK, Italy, and Japan in Joint Air Combat Programme

Saudi Arabia’s request to join the UK, Japan, and Italy in their joint effort to develop the next generation of fighter jets has been met with both support and controversy. The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), also known as Tempest, aims to deliver the first planes by 2035. Adding Saudi Arabia as a partner could help spread the costs of development, but it also raises concerns due to the country’s human rights record and involvement in conflicts such as the war in Yemen.

The UK, Japan, and Italy have been collaborating on the GCAP, with companies from each country working together to build a new fighter jet and other systems, including drones. The addition of Saudi Arabia could potentially provide a significant financial boost to the program, as the country is one of the world’s biggest defense spenders. However, it also presents challenges, as negotiations already involve multiple governments and companies. The UK, in particular, has a strong interest in adding Saudi Arabia to the program.

Critics argue that allowing Saudi Arabia to join could be controversial due to the country’s record on human rights, including its alleged involvement in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. While the country faced international censure following the incident, the criticism has since faded. Both the UK and Saudi Arabia consider each other strategic partners, and the UK Defense Ministry is keen to deepen the collaboration on GCAP.

Despite UK support, Japan has expressed opposition to Saudi Arabia joining the program. Japan has been gradually easing restrictions on weapons exports that were a part of its pacifist legacy after World War II. There appear to be differing views among the three GCAP partners regarding Saudi Arabia’s involvement.

Saudi Arabia has been expressing interest in joining the Tempest program for some time. A memorandum of understanding was signed between Saudi Arabia and the UK in March, indicating a willingness to explore a combat air partnership. Talks about formalizing Saudi Arabia’s participation are reportedly still at an early stage and being handled by the UK Ministry of Defense. Any formal agreement would require the approval of the UK Prime Minister.

Saudi Arabia’s eagerness to join the Tempest program aligns with its broader efforts to reduce reliance on the US for weaponry and develop a domestic defense industry. The country recently signed a deal with Turkish defense firm Baykar Tech to manufacture drones domestically.

From an economic standpoint, Saudi Arabia’s inclusion in the program could provide a significant financial boost and help share the costs among the partner countries. However, the moral implications and potential reputational risks associated with collaborating with a country facing criticism for its human rights record must also be considered.

It is essential for the partner countries to engage in careful deliberations and consider the potential consequences before making a decision about Saudi Arabia’s inclusion. They must weigh the economic benefits against the ethical concerns, taking into account the international community’s expectations regarding human rights.

Ultimately, the decision should prioritize transparency and accountability, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved in discussions about the partnership. It is vital to strike a balance between economic interests and upholding the principles of human rights and responsible arms trade.

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