Only 40% of Canada’s air force inventory is deemed serviceable and combat-ready, according to a newly obtained military-wide readiness document. The uncertainty surrounding fleet availability and aging aircraft is expected to grow amid the Liberal government’s reconsideration of the F-35 fighter jet purchase and potential reductions in the number of U.S.-made warplanes on order.
Dated Feb. 18, 2025, the report indicates that 60% of the air force inventory is “unserviceable” and unfit for deployment, raising concerns about Canada’s NATO commitments. The possibility of cutting the number of F-35s, while politically appealing, comes at a vulnerable time, as the air force still relies on aging CF-18 fighter jets that have been in service for nearly 45 years.
The F-35 program has long been a contentious issue in Canada. The former Conservative government’s plan to procure the jets faced intense scrutiny, and the Liberals initially opposed the purchase before reversing their stance and ordering 88 F-35s to replace the CF-18s. However, recent geopolitical tensions, including trade disputes with the U.S. and uncertainty about allied commitments, have reignited debate over whether the F-35 remains the best choice for Canada’s defense strategy.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, expected to call a federal election, has ordered a review of the procurement, questioning if the F-35 is the right aircraft for Canada’s current geopolitical climate. The government has already committed to its first 16 F-35s, with plans to acquire 88 in total for $19 billion, though this could change. Defence Minister Bill Blair has suggested the possibility of Canada operating two fighter jet models, raising speculation about a potential deal with Saab for its Gripen-E jets, which could be assembled in Canada.
However, military experts warn that reconsidering the F-35 at this stage could lead to delays, leaving Canada without operational fighters for a period of time. Retired general Tom Lawson argues that maintaining two separate fighter jet fleets would be cost-prohibitive due to the need for distinct training, supply chains, and infrastructure.
Beyond trade tensions, concerns over U.S. control of F-35 software and supply chains have also fueled debate. Dan Grazier of the Washington-based Stimson Center notes that Canada’s reliance on American military technology leaves it vulnerable to U.S. policy decisions. However, former F-35 test pilot Billie Flynn counters that all Canadian military assets, including CF-18 weapons and naval systems, are already subject to U.S. control, making the F-35 no different in terms of strategic dependence.
As the Liberal government weighs its options, Canada’s air force faces mounting pressure to modernize its fleet amid growing concerns over national defense readiness.
Source: Swifteradio.com
