Canada Reviews F-35 Contract with Lockheed Martin
Canada is currently reassessing its contract with Lockheed Martin for the purchase of F-35 fighter jets, as stated by the country’s Defense Minister. This review arises amid escalating tensions between Ottawa and Washington. Notably, Portugal has also indicated a reevaluation of its plans to acquire the jets.
During an interview with CBC, Defense Minister Bill Blair confirmed discussions with newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney, emphasizing the exploration of “other alternatives” beyond the F-35. “It was the fighter jet identified by our air force as the platform that they required, but we are also examining other alternatives,” he remarked. “The prime minister has tasked me with evaluating these options and engaging in discussions with various sources, especially regarding possible local assembly of the fighter jets,” he added.
In 2023, Canada finalized a contract to procure 88 F-35 jets for approximately C$19 billion (around $13.2 billion), with a financial commitment established for the first 16 aircraft. Delivery of the initial jet is anticipated at the F-35 training center located at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona by 2026, with the first jets expected to arrive in Canada by 2028.
In a statement provided to Business Insider, Canada’s Office of the Minister of National Defence reiterated that while the F-35 contract remains intact, a thorough evaluation is necessary given the evolving geopolitical landscape. “To be clear, we are not cancelling the F-35 contract, but we need to do our homework to ensure that the current agreement serves the best interests of Canadians and the Canadian Armed Forces,” the statement read.
Lockheed Martin expressed its commitment to the enduring partnership with the Royal Canadian Air Force and its eagerness to maintain this relationship moving forward. The company secured the contract after competing against Sweden’s Saab, maker of the Gripen E jet, and Boeing, producer of the F/A-18 Super Hornet.
Blair’s comments coincided with Portugal’s announcement regarding its reconsideration of the F-35 purchase. Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo conveyed to the local outlet Público his concerns about replacing older US-made F-16s with F-35s, particularly in light of President Donald Trump’s recent policy directions. Melo stressed, “We cannot ignore the geopolitical environment in our choices,” highlighting uncertainties stemming from Trump’s unpredictable stance on NATO.
The backdrop of Blair’s comments reflects heightened tensions between Canada and the United States, partly due to Trump’s repeated tariff threats and his controversial suggestions about the possibility of Canada becoming the 51st state. This has sparked a wave of nationalism among Canadians, with some choosing to abandon US brands in favor of Canadian products.
