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Canada Reconsiders $13 Billion F-35 Fighter Jet Deal with U.S.

Tensions over U.S. tariffs and President Trump's rhetoric prompt Canada to explore alternatives to Lockheed Martin's F-35 jets.

A US Air Force demonstration team pilot walks past one of two F-35A Lightning II fighter jets Wednesday September 4, 2019 in Ottawa. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
This image from March 09, 2025 shows F-35 62nd Fighter Squadron flyover prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Shriners Children's 500 at Phoenix Raceway on March 09, 2025 in Avondale, Arizona. (
An icon of an F-35 with a Canadian flag is seen on a screen as Lockheed Martin’s J.R. McDonald speaks during a news conference at the CANSEC trade show, in Ottawa, Wednesday, June 1, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang
A US F-35 in flight.

Overview

  • Canada's Defense Minister Bill Blair announced a review of the country's contract to purchase 88 U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, citing shifting priorities and growing tensions with the United States.
  • The $13.2 billion deal, finalized in 2023, has already seen Canada pay for 16 jets, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026.
  • Prime Minister Mark Carney, newly sworn in, has directed the defense ministry to assess whether the F-35 remains the best option or if alternatives, such as European-built aircraft, should be considered.
  • The review comes as President Trump imposes steep tariffs on Canadian goods and makes controversial comments about Canada potentially becoming the 51st U.S. state, straining bilateral relations.
  • Switching to a mixed fleet of aircraft could increase costs significantly due to the need for separate training, infrastructure, and supply chains, complicating Canada's defense strategy.