Calgary (National Times): In a significant policy move, Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has instructed Defence Minister Bill Blair to review the country’s planned purchase of America’s F-35 fighter jets. The directive comes with a call to explore alternative options “given the changing environment,” according to Blair’s spokesperson on Saturday.
Canada’s Original F-35 Purchase Plan
Two years ago, Canada agreed to acquire 88 F-35 jets, legally committing funds for the first 16 aircraft as part of its long-term defense strategy. The planned acquisition was set to be the largest investment in the Royal Canadian Air Force in over three decades, with a budget allocation of approximately USD 13 billion (19 billion Canadian dollars). The full lifecycle cost of the program is expected to reach 70 billion Canadian dollars.
Reassessment Amid Changing Dynamics
Defence Ministry press secretary Laurent de Casanove stated that Carney has asked Blair to collaborate with the military to assess whether the existing F-35 contract represents the best investment for Canada. He added that the review would consider “other options that could better meet Canada’s needs.”
The review comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions with the United States, following US President Donald Trump’s declaration of a trade war with Canada, including threats of economic coercion to make Canada the USA’s 51st state.
Response from Lockheed Martin and Canadian Government
A spokesperson for Lockheed Martin expressed the company’s appreciation for its strong relationship with the Royal Canadian Air Force, stating, “The Canadian and U.S. governments best address questions about Canada’s procurement of the F-35.”
The Canadian government had previously announced in 2022 that Lockheed Martin was selected as the top-ranked bidder for a new fighter jet to replace the country’s ageing F-18s, dismissing competing bids from Boeing’s Super Hornet and the Swedish-built Saab Gripen.
De Casanove emphasized that the F-35 contract has not been cancelled, clarifying, “We need to do our homework given the changing environment and make sure that the contract in its current form is in the best interests of Canadians and the Canadian Armed Forces.”
What Lies Ahead?
As Canada reassesses its F-35 agreement, the outcome of this review could have major implications for both the country’s defense strategy and its relationship with the United States. The world watches closely to see whether Canada will proceed with the original deal or opt for alternative solutions that better align with its evolving needs.
