Canada still reviewing F-35 purchase after RCAF received its first jets: minister
OTTAWA — Defence Minister David McGuinty says the federal government's planned purchase of 88 F-35 stealth fighters remains under review, even after the military received its first two F-35s in recent days.
Ottawa — The Canadian government’s intended acquisition of 88 F-35 stealth aircraft has not been concluded despite the military’s recent receipt of its initial two jets. Defence Minister David McGuinty stated that the federal authorities will take ample time to assess various factors, including industrial advantages and cutting-edge autonomous air systems designed to complement fighter planes.
The Royal Canadian Air Force announced the arrival of its first two jets from Lockheed Martin at Luke Air Force base in Phoenix, Arizona, earlier this week via social media. Prime Minister Mark Carney initiated the review of the entire order for 88 jets immediately upon assuming office, even as U.S. President Donald Trump was in the initial stages of his trade conflict with Canada.
Ottawa has pledged financial support for procuring at least the initial 16 jets and has also ordered spare parts. Swedish defence firm Saab disclosed collaborations with several prominent Canadian aerospace corporations on this week, anticipating the potential scenario where the Carney administration chooses to acquire a diverse fighter fleet and manufacture Gripen E fighter jets within Canada.
Written by urgent.news from CityNews's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
