Setting out Britain’s determination ...

[Michael Grove]

  ... to remain a world-leader in the combat air sector,

  Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has today unveiled

  a concept model of a brand-new, next-generation fighter

  jet as he launched a comprehensive strategy with a bold

  statement of intent for future British air power.

  

   The UK already has a long and proud history of delivering world-class

   Combat Air systems through collaborative programmes. We also have

   a unique global network of international partners in Combat Air which

   we will develop even further to maximise mutual benefit and reinforce

   our ability to operate together. This Strategy sets out how we will deliver

   this agenda. 

   This Combat Air Strategy is a crucial pillar of the Government’s

   Modernising Defence Programme. It sets out our aspirations and

   identifies how we will make this vision real, giving industry and

   international partners a clear signal of our national intent and our

   desire to work together. Our investment of nearly £2Bn over ten

   years in the Future Combat Air System Technology Initiative

   provides the means to develop the technologies of the future.  

   The Strategy confirms investments in and upgrades to existing

   capabilities such as Typhoon and F-35 to keep them at the cutting

   edge well into the future. The Strategy builds on success and enables

   us to deliver the UK’s and our partners’ – future military capabilities.

   This will ensure a sustainable and globally competitive industry

   in the UK for the long term. It will deliver a strategic approach to

   defence acquisition which maximises the value to the UK.

[Michael Grove]