Canada Defense Officials Urge Sticking with Full F-35 Jet Order

Canadian defense officials have strongly recommended that Ottawa proceed with the original plan to purchase all 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets, rather than splitting the order between U.S. and European suppliers. This recommendation follows a review requested by Prime Minister Mark Carney, who initially expressed concerns about over-reliance on U.S. defense industries and considered buying some jets from European rivals. However, the review found that splitting the order would lead to increased costs for training, supplies, and maintenance, given the close integration of Canadian and U.S. armed forces. The decision ultimately rests with Carney's Liberal government, which has already legally committed funds for the first 16 aircraft. Sticking with the F-35s is also seen as a way to avoid further friction with the United States amid stalled trade and security talks, despite ongoing U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and cars. Defense Minister David McGuinty reiterated the government's commitment to procuring the fighter jets while ensuring economic benefits for Canadians and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.