Canada Reviews F-35 Fighter Jet Contract Amid Public and Strategic Concerns

Prime Minister Mark Carney's government is reassessing the $19 billion deal as public opposition grows and questions about U.S. control and alternative options arise.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has initiated a review of Canada's $19 billion F-35 fighter jet contract, with the potential to cancel the purchase of 72 jets beyond the 16 already paid for.
A Nanos poll shows 62% of Canadians support or somewhat support canceling the contract, reflecting widespread public skepticism about the deal's financial and strategic implications.
Critics have raised concerns about U.S. control over the F-35's software, which could limit Canada's operational independence and create vulnerabilities in its defense capabilities.
Lockheed Martin has proposed creating more Canadian jobs if the full order is maintained, while Sweden's Saab AB has offered to build its Gripen E jets in Canada as an alternative.
Canceling the contract could result in financial penalties and further strain Canada-U.S. relations, already tense under President Donald Trump's administration due to tariffs and annexation rhetoric.

Macdonald-Laurier Institute