Canada receives its first F-35 jets from U.S., as full order remains under review

Canada has received its first pair of F-35 fighter jets from the United States, according to a Royal Canadian Air Force announcement on social media. The two Lockheed Martin jets were seen in Phoenix with a maple-leaf roundel, indicating their Canadian ownership. However, the Canadian government is still reviewing the full extent of the order, which was initially intended to be 88 jets.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has paused the plan to proceed with the entire purchase of F-35 jets, expressing concerns over potential threats from the United States. The review of the purchase was expected to conclude a year ago, following repeated trade and annexation threats made by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Carney's decision to pause the order comes amidst concerns over the capabilities of the F-35 jets and the control of software used by the aircraft. Former Foreign Minister Lloyd Axworthy warned in a recent blog post that Washington holds control over the software that powers the F-35 jets. Despite these concerns, U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra praised the F-35 as "the best fighter in the world."

The Canadian government's decision to pause the full order for F-35 jets leaves open the possibility of a mixed fleet, potentially including Gripen jets made by Saab. The review process, which should have been completed a year ago, is still ongoing, and the final decision on the acquisition of F-35 jets remains uncertain.