ECJU updates new and updated General Licences for defence export collaboration

In NTE 2026/19, the ECJU announced that it has updated the existing GCAP Open General Licence and introduced a new Open General Export Licence for the Defence Export Controls Agreement, both aimed to support defence collaboration with close partners and provide simplified licensing arrangements, while maintaining the UK’s robust export controls. Updated Open General Licence (Global Combat Air Programme) The GCAP OGL (August 2024) has been revoked and replaced to reflect the UK/Japan/Italy programme's next development phase. The key change is that it adds new Supply Chain Nations; authorizes limited Observer Nation activities; and updates programme terminology. The licence permits export/transfer of specified dual-use and military goods, software, and technology to GCAP Partner and Supply Chain Nations for development, production, test and evaluation, through-life support, use, disposal, or decommissioning. Existing registrations remain valid. New OGEL: Agreement on Defence Export Controls 'De-Minimis' Exports Implements the "de-minimis" provisions under Article 3 of the UK-France-Germany-Spain Agreement on Defence Export Controls. Applies where UK-origin goods/software/technology make up 20% or less of the total value of the final integrated system. Permits export/transfer of specified military goods, software, and technology to Partner Nations (France, Germany, Spain) for integration, with the resulting system then transferable onward from the Partner Nation to any non-excluded destination. The ECJU accordingly issued updated guidance on Agreement on Defence Export Controls reflecting the above changes and updates.