Canada Reassesses F-35 Jet Deal Over U.S. Trade and Security Concerns

Prime Minister Mark Carney orders a review of the $19-billion contract, raising questions about U.S. reliability and exploring European alternatives.

Canada has legally committed to purchasing the first 16 F-35 jets but is reevaluating the remaining 72 in light of geopolitical tensions with the U.S.
Concerns center on U.S. control over F-35 software updates and spare parts, which could impact Canada's operational independence.
The review includes exploring alternatives such as the Saab Gripen and Eurofighter Typhoon, though switching fleets would be costly and complex.
Trade disputes and annexation threats from U.S. President Donald Trump have strained relations, prompting Canada to reconsider its defense procurement strategy.
The decision could have economic implications for Canadian firms like Bombardier, which rely on U.S. defense contracts.