Canada is reevaluating its commitment to the U.S.-made F-35 stealth fighter and is in talks with alternative aircraft manufacturers, Defence Minister Bill Blair announced Friday after being reappointed to his post under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s new cabinet. The move follows Portugal’s indication that it may abandon its F-35 acquisition plans.
The reassessment comes amid heightened tensions with the Trump administration over tariffs and economic threats, prompting widespread public and governmental scrutiny over the $19-billion fighter jet deal. Canada signed a contract with Lockheed Martin in June 2023 to purchase 88 F-35s, with the first 16 scheduled for delivery early next year.
Blair emphasized that the government is considering options beyond the F-35 to ensure the best interests of Canada’s military and defense strategy. He hinted that Canada might accept the initial jets but source additional aircraft from European manufacturers, including the Swedish-built Saab Gripen, which was a runner-up in the selection process. Sweden’s proposal included local assembly and technology transfer, ensuring maintenance capabilities within Canada.
The idea of a mixed fleet has historically been opposed by the Royal Canadian Air Force due to logistical challenges, including separate training programs, infrastructure, and supply chains. However, ongoing concerns over U.S. political stability and economic threats have fueled reconsideration.
Lockheed Martin reiterated its commitment to Canada’s defense partnership but declined to comment on Portugal’s potential withdrawal from the program. The company also dismissed misinformation about a “kill switch” in F-35 aircraft that could disable allied fleets at the behest of the U.S. government.
While penalties would apply if Canada exits the contract, the exact financial impact remains uncertain. Additionally, Canadian aerospace companies play a role in the F-35 supply chain, contributing $1.3 billion to the economy between 1997 and 2021.
Source: Swifteradio.com
