With a flying prototype for a sixth-generation warplane to replace the Eurofighter Typhoon given the green light, speculation has grown over whether Japan will be welcomed into the project.

The supersonic fighter jet needs buyers and funding to be ready for its planned entry into service in 2035, according to BAE Systems, which is building the prototype – its first of that kind in almost 40 years – in a venture with the Ministry of Defence.

It is part of the wider Tempest program, which also involves Italy’s Leonardo, and could offer technological leaps similar to that of the jet engine or Concorde.

Last week the Ministry of Defence said the UK and Japan would conduct “joint concept analysis” to determine how closely they can co-operate on a new jet fighter programme, building on deals between the two nations to work together on radar and jet engine technology.

Read more: yahoo