One of the world’s largest airshows has kicked off in Britain. A mockup of a next-generation fighter jet being developed by Japan, the UK, and Italy is among the attractions.
The nearly full-scale model went on display on Monday in Farnborough. The plane is at the center of the three nations’ so-called Global Combat Air Programme.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the project is making “significant progress.”
Starmer’s comment follows British media reports last week that his government might review the joint development project due to concerns about funding.
Britain’s Rolls-Royce is developing the engines.
An executive has told NHK that the company is confident about its development capabilities, and that it’s certain the project can continue.
About 1,500 companies, including aircraft makers from around the world, are also taking part in the airshow. They are displaying their newest passenger and military planes.
These include an unmanned transport aircraft that is said to be carrying relief supplies to the frontlines in Ukraine. Its British manufacturer says the plane can fly up to 1,000 kilometers with 100 kilograms of cargo.
A Danish F16 fighter jet is also on display. It’s expected to be going to Ukraine this summer.