Canada rethinks F-35 purchase
Article author: Filip Timotija
Article date: February 4, 2026
Summary:
Canada is reconsidering its long-planned purchase of U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets as trade tensions with Washington deepen. Although Ottawa committed in 2022 to buying 88 aircraft, delays, rising costs, and political friction with President Donald Trump have pushed Prime Minister Mark Carney to review the deal. Canadian officials and analysts say the dispute reflects a broader reassessment of defense dependence on the United States, even as both countries remain tightly linked through North American Aerospace Defense Command. The debate now centers on whether Canada should diversify its defense suppliers or stick with the more advanced but politically sensitive U.S. jets.
Main points and details:
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Canada agreed in 2022 to buy 88 F-35 fighter jets, starting with an initial batch of 16.
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Costs have increased by more than $27 billion, and delivery timelines have slipped.
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Escalating trade tensions between Ottawa and Washington since Trump’s return to office triggered a formal review of the deal in March.
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Former Canadian security adviser Vincent Rigby says U.S. rhetoric has prompted calls to diversify defense suppliers beyond the United States.
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The jets are produced by Lockheed Martin, which retains oversight of upgrades and sustainment even after sale.
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U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra suggested Canada’s decision could affect NORAD operations, remarks later clarified by the State Department.
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Some Canadian officials viewed those comments as political pressure, which may have backfired.
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The Canadian government is considering alternatives such as the Swedish-built Gripen fighter.
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Polling shows 72 percent of Canadians support either a mixed fleet or switching away from F-35s, while only 13 percent favor sticking with them exclusively.
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Defense experts warn that operating multiple fighter platforms would strain logistics and expertise.
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Carney has emphasized higher defense spending and greater international diversification while maintaining core cooperation with the U.S.
➡️ FULL ARTICLE: https://thehill.com/policy/defense/5723441-canada-reevaluates-f35-purchase/