New UK government calls for RAF to become Europe’s ‘first sixth-generation air force’

The United Kingdom's new government, led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, is pursuing a strategy to transform the Royal Air Force into Europe’s inaugural sixth-generation air force. A key component of this initiative involves commencing flight testing of a collaborative combat aircraft within one year. Furthermore, the plan anticipates fielding an operational jet by the year 2030. The modernization efforts also encompass integrating an uncrewed fighter aircraft into the RAF’s capabilities. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted these ambitious plans during remarks at the 2026 event, signaling a substantial shift in the UK’s aerospace strategy.