European Sovereignty Monitor

Defence and space

UK extends BAE Systems contract by GBP 708 million for Tempest combat air tech

The UK Ministry of Defence extended its contract with BAE Systems and Team Tempest partners Leonardo UK, MBDA UK and Rolls-Royce by GBP 708 million, for sixth-generation combat air technology work that feeds into GCAP.

Verified UK Government (GOV.UK) press release, 22 July 2026

What it does not test. This does not establish that the funded technology will be selected for the final GCAP aircraft design.

How this item counts. Towards autonomy: it changes who made the parts. Binding 2 of 3 (agreed or funded), scale 2 of 3 (medium), Verified counts in full: weight +4 of 36 possible. UK funds GBP708M more to BAE/Leonardo UK/MBDA/Rolls-Royce for GCAP tech. European Sovereignty Index

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