Italy opposed full German participation in the development of the sixth generation fighter.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosto spoke out against Berlin's full membership in the international program. In Rome, it is feared that German aerospace companies will receive orders from Italian companies.
The Japanese authorities also feared the inclusion of Germany. At the moment they are willing to offer the German side only observer status, but in Berlin they intend to insist on full partnership.
Britain, Italy and Japan entered into an agreement to jointly develop a sixth-generation fighter jet in December 2022. The vehicle is developed as an alternative to promising American fighter jets.