Canada reevaluates F‑35 jet deal amid US tensions
The Canadian government has initiated a review of the contract to acquire 88 F-35 fighter jets. This decision arises from increasingly strained relations with Donald Trump's administration, lessons learned from his approach to Ukraine, and growing concerns about overdependence on American weaponry.
In response, the Canadian government has acknowledged appeals from some community members and experts who have openly called for the cancellation of the F-35 order. However, cancelling the order will be challenging and is at least partially unfeasible.
Will Canada cancel part of the F-35 order?
Breaking Defense reports that Canada has already pledged funding for the first 16 F-35 fighters, requiring their acceptance. At the same time, the country is conducting a thorough review of the remaining multibillion-dollar order, following directives from Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The contract for acquiring F-35s is still in effect, legally obligating Canada to finance the first 16 aircraft. However, the Prime Minister has directed the Minister of National Defence to collaborate with the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence to evaluate whether the current F-35 agreement represents the best investment for the country. As reported by Breaking Defence, if more suitable alternatives exist, they will be considered, according to a press secretary for the Canadian Minister of National Defence.
Analysts at Defense Express suggest that the situation could represent another potential front in Canada's trade tensions with the United States. In their view, cancelling the order for additional batches of F-35s would certainly "not be a favourable signal for Lockheed Martin and the American defence industry."
Concerns surrounding the F-35 extend beyond the so-called kill switch, which has never been confirmed. Many experts highlight that the United States has other means of diminishing the combat capability of F-35s owned by different countries. These include mission data files, the need to conduct specific maintenance activities in the United States, and the supply (or lack thereof) of spare parts.
What are the alternatives to the F-35?
Defense Express analysts suggest that a Canadian precedent might lead to a reassessment of existing contracts in other nations while also shortening the wait time for these aircraft.
The Swedish JAS 39 Gripen is primarily suggested as an alternative to the F-35. While it is less advanced and lacks stealth technology, it is relatively affordable and easy to maintain. Moreover, it can operate from short, makeshift runways. Former Pentagon consultant Reuben F. Johnson opines that the Swedish fighter deserves more consideration and may even surpass the American competitor.
