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2mo ago

Canada Reviews $19 Billion F-35 Fighter Jet Deal with U.S.

Prime Minister Mark Carney orders reassessment of Lockheed Martin contract as trade tensions with the U.S. escalate.

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 government is reevaluating its 2023 agreement to purchase 88 F-35 fighter jets, citing concerns over U.S. trade policies and geopolitical uncertainties.
  • The review, initiated by Prime Minister Mark Carney, aims to determine whether the contract is the best option for Canada's defense needs or if alternatives should be considered.
  • The deal, valued at CAD$19 billion, includes a legal commitment to purchase the first 16 jets, with delivery expected in 2026, but further orders may be reconsidered.
  • Tensions with the U.S., including tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump and inflammatory rhetoric about annexing Canada, have fueled doubts about reliance on American defense systems.
  • Portugal has also signaled hesitation about the F-35 program, referencing concerns over U.S. reliability and potential operational restrictions on the aircraft.