UK's First Tempest Crewed Combat Air Demonstrator Takes Shape as Manufacturing Begins

The UK's combat air industry partners have launched the development of the nation's first crewed combat air demonstrator in a generation, with manufacturing and assembly of the main aircraft structure now in progress.

The demonstrator, a piloted supersonic aircraft, will test a range of new technologies, including stealth compatible features, and is set to fly within the next three years.

The successful development of the demonstrator will pave the way for the introduction of Tempest, a next-generation combat aircraft that will be delivered through the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a collaboration between the UK, Italy, and Japan.

The project is a collaboration between BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, MBDA UK, and the UK Ministry of Defence, and is providing data and lessons to support the introduction of a new combat aircraft from 2035, known as Tempest in the UK.

Air Commodore Martin Lowe, Future Combat Air Systems Programme Director for UK Ministry of Defence, said: "The progress we have made together - MOD and industry - in such a short space of time has been remarkable. This demonstrator is helping us understand more about the advanced technology that is required to deliver a sixth-generation fighter jet."

The project is utilizing digital techniques and transformative processes, including advanced manufacturing technologies, virtual simulators, and digital rigs. Over 100 UK suppliers are partnering with the industry leaders to showcase British engineering expertise.

With the aircraft's first flight expected within three years, the project is on track to meet its ambitious timeline.