Italy is open to Germany's participation in the next-generation fighter jet project with the UK and Japan.

According to media reports on an interview with Lorenzo Mariani, the new CEO of Leonardo company, Italy may have an open attitude towards Germany joining the next generation fighter jet development project with the UK and Japan. Mariani stated that if Germany were to participate in the "global combat aircraft program," it would delay the project progress but bring long-term benefits. At this stage, intense negotiations would be required to involve Germany in the project. Mariani said he would be "very happy" if some German industrial companies were able to join, as these projects require high levels of investment.