Saab's Gripen E fighter jet is an alternative being considered to the American-made F-35. Photo by Saab /PST
Prime Minister Mark Carney has ordered a review of Canada's F-35 fighter jet contract with Lockheed Martin, raising concerns about security, financial commitments, and worsening relations with the U.S. This move comes as Canada faces pressure to modernize its military while navigating an increasingly strained alliance with its southern neighbor.
Carney has tasked Defence Minister Bill Blair with evaluating whether the $85 million per aircraft deal remains in Canada’s best interest. The government has committed to purchasing 88 F-35 fighter jets, with the first deliveries expected in 2026 and final aircraft arriving by 2032. However, changing geopolitical conditions and uncertainty over U.S. reliability have prompted a second look at the agreement.
Growing Distrust in U.S. Defense Deals
The review follows a series of trade disputes and security concerns stemming from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. Canada, like other U.S. allies, has begun questioning its reliance on American-made military equipment, especially as Trump challenges traditional alliances such as NATO.
A key concern is the Pentagon’s control over the F-35’s source code, a crucial software key that determines the jet’s operational capabilities. Without full access, Canada would depend on the U.S. for software updates, raising fears that Washington could restrict access or downgrade Canadian jets at any time.
David Perry, president of the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, believes Canada’s hesitancy is justified, given the current political climate. “There are serious concerns about whether allies, including Canada, can trust the U.S. government to provide continued support,” he said.
Security Risks and Military Delays
Not everyone agrees with the government’s approach. Defense experts warn that delaying or canceling the contract could jeopardize national security and disrupt military upgrades.
Richard Shimooka, a senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, criticized the review, calling it shortsighted and damaging. “This is like cutting off our nose to spite our face,” he said, emphasizing that Canada’s military is too small to operate independently and must remain closely integrated with allied defense systems.
Finding an alternative to the F-35 could take years, potentially leaving Canada vulnerable as it phases out its aging CF-18 fighter jets. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has already expressed frustration over delays in acquiring a modern fleet.
Political Divide Over the Canada F-35 Deal
The review has also deepened political divisions. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has taken the strongest stance, promising to cancel the F-35 contract entirely if his party comes to power. Singh advocates for building new fighter jets domestically, arguing that Canada should invest in its own defense industry rather than depend on U.S. manufacturers.
Meanwhile, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet has called for Canada to demand full operational control over the F-35s, including access to the source code. Without this, he argues, the country’s fleet would remain at the mercy of the U.S. Department of Defense.
Conservative defense critic James Bezan has accused the government of mismanaging the process, stating that Canada should already have new fighter jets in service. He also warned that backing out of the deal could strain Canada’s relationship with the U.S., leading to consequences in trade agreements and defense partnerships.
The Financial Cost of the F-35 Program
Beyond security concerns, the cost of the F-35 fleet is another factor in the review. The Parliamentary Budget Officer estimates that the total lifetime cost of the fleet—including acquisition, maintenance, and operation—could reach $73.9 billion. This includes:
- $10.7 billion for purchasing 88 aircraft
- $2.1 billion for weapons and ammunition
- $5.9 billion for infrastructure, training, and related expenses
Despite the high price tag, supporters argue that the deal allows Canada to purchase jets at U.S. procurement costs, ensuring faster deliveries compared to sourcing them from private contractors.
What’s Next?
As Canada faces increasing pressure from the U.S. to boost defense spending and fulfill its NATO commitments, the outcome of this review could significantly impact its military future. While the government weighs its options, any decision to delay or alter the contract will likely come with economic, political, and security consequences.
