Bombardier and BAE Systems Partner on Combat Air Programs

Bombardier Inc. and BAE Systems signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding on October 28, 2026, to collaborate on next-generation combat air programs. The partnership focuses on identifying synergies in research and development, systems integration, industrialization, and in-service lifecycle management, while also targeting workforce and supply chain development.

The agreement aligns with Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy and follows the Canadian government's July 2026 announcement of observer status in the Global Combat Air Programme, a partnership involving Japan, Italy, and the United Kingdom. The collaboration seeks to combine the aerospace manufacturing and integration experience of Bombardier with the combat air design and support expertise of BAE Systems.

Stephen McCullough, Executive Vice President of Engineering, Product Development and Bombardier Defense, stated the MOU provides a framework to explore capabilities for next-generation programs while strengthening industrial capacity and high-value jobs. Simon Barnes of BAE Systems noted the agreement is an important step in strengthening international partnerships that support the future of combat air.