Canada is currently considering reconsidering its decision to purchase 88 F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin. This development follows diplomatic tensions between Canada and the United States during President Donald Trump's second term. Defence Minister Bill Blair announced on March 14, 2025, that his department is actively seeking alternatives that could potentially be assembled in Canada.
In 2022, Canada decided to purchase 88 F-35 fighter jets for approximately 19 billion Canadian dollars (approximately 14,15 billion Swiss francs) to replace its aging F/A-18 aircraft. This decision followed a selection process that defeated European competitors such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and the Dassault Rafale. The decision to purchase the F-35 was seen at the time as a sign of increased cohesion with its allies NORAD (North American Air Defense) and NATO.
The current consideration of alternatives to the F-35 could have significant implications for the Royal Canadian Air Force's (RCAF) modernization plans. The Minister of Defence emphasized that the possibility of assembling these aircraft in Canada was particularly attractive, as it could benefit the domestic industry. Swedish defence company Saab had previously promised that, if awarded the contract, it would have its JAS 39 Gripen model assembled and maintained in Canada.
Although Canada has already made a down payment for the first 16 F-35A aircraft, Blair's statement suggests that the RCAF may not proceed with the full procurement of 88 aircraft as originally planned. This could result in Canada maintaining a mixed fleet combining F-35s with an alternative aircraft.
Canada's reassessment follows a pattern of skepticism among allies regarding the F-35 program. On March 13, 2025, Portugal's Defense Minister Nuno Melo announced that his country was also reconsidering its plans to potentially replace its aging F-16 fleet with F-35s, although no order has yet been placed. Melo emphasized the need to explore options that incorporate European production and offer economic benefits for Portugal.
Canada's relationship with the F-35 program has been volatile in the past. In 2010, the then-Prime Minister Stephen Harper government committed to acquiring 65 F-35As for $8,6 billion without conducting a competitive bidding process. This decision reflected Canada's status as a Level III partner in the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program, having contributed approximately $613 million to its development.
However, Justin Trudeau's 2015 election campaign was dominated by the cancellation of this procurement. Trudeau criticized the lack of competition and promised to select a more cost-effective alternative that better suited Canada's defense needs. After taking office, his government formally canceled the order but maintained Canada's partnership in the JSF program.
In 2017, Canada launched the Future Fighter Capability Project (FFCP) to find a replacement for its aging CF-18 Hornets. The competition initially included Boeing's F/A-18 Super Hornet, Airbus' Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault's Rafale, and Saab's Gripen. However, Dassault Aviation withdrew in 2018, with CEO Eric Trappier citing insurmountable security constraints imposed by Canada's membership in the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. In 2019, Airbus followed suit, arguing that the tender terms appeared skewed in Lockheed Martin's favor.
At the end of 2021, Boeing's Super Hornet was also disqualified by Public Services and Procurement Canada for undisclosed reasons, leaving only two candidates: Lockheed Martin's F-35 and Saab's Gripen. On March 28, 2022, Canada confirmed the selection of the F-35, citing its interoperability with NORAD and NATO forces.
The latest developments come amid rising diplomatic tensions between Ottawa and Washington. Trump's return to the White House was marked by controversial statements, including consideration of potentially making Canada the 51st U.S. state, as well as renewed trade disputes. These tensions appear to be influencing defense procurement decisions, with Canada seeking alternatives that offer greater domestic industrial advantages.
If Canada ultimately moves away from the F-35, it would signal a significant shift in its defense strategy. Historically, the two countries have been closely coordinated in air operations. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a binational organization between the United States and Canada, is responsible for securing the airspace of both nations using a layered defense system that includes satellites, ground- and air-based radars, and combat aircraft.
A decision to introduce a non-American fighter aircraft into Canada's fleet could pose logistical and interoperability challenges, particularly with regard to joint operations and defense coordination with the U.S. Air Force.
It remains to be seen what steps Canada will take in the coming months. The decision to consider alternatives to the F-35 reflects the changing geopolitical situation and the desire to strengthen the domestic defense industry.
and 