Canada Reviews $19B U.S. Fighter Jet Deal, Seeks Security Alternatives
Canada is rethinking its $19-billion contract for 88 F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin due to concerns over relying too heavily on the United States for its security needs. Prime Minister Mark Carney made the announcement on Monday, stating that Canada is exploring alternative aircraft options to diversify its defense strategies.
Carney’s comments come amid ongoing trade tensions with the U.S., with Canada spending around 80% of its defense budget on American-made weapons. Despite the review, Canada’s Defense Ministry confirmed the contract remains in place, including a legal commitment to purchase the first 16 F-35 aircraft.
The review reflects Canada’s desire for greater value for money and the potential for domestic production of alternative jets, including those from companies like Sweden’s Saab, which had previously proposed assembling aircraft in Canada.
Carney emphasized the need to reduce Canada’s dependence on the U.S. for military technology, citing recent U.S. intelligence-sharing issues and tariff threats as examples of the risks of relying too much on American systems.
Canada, which has pledged to meet NATO defense spending targets by 2030, will continue to assess its defense options, with potential opportunities for Canadian firms to benefit from increased European defense investments.
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