F-35 Dominates Gripen in Canada Fighter Jet Evaluation Data
Internal evaluation data obtained by Radio-Canada reveals a decisive performance gap between competing fighter aircraft in Canada’s Future Fighter Capability Project. The Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II scored 57.1 out of 60 possible points (95%), while Saab’s Gripen E achieved only 19.8 points (33%) across all rated operational categories.
The evaluation, conducted in 2021, represents Canada’s second major attempt to replace its aging CF-18 fleet following an earlier procurement effort that collapsed amid cost and political concerns. The FFCP restart implemented new requirements, independent scoring methodology, and open tender principles. Originally, five manufacturers competed: Lockheed Martin, Saab, Dassault, Airbus, and Boeing. However, Dassault withdrew citing Five Eyes security constraints, Airbus exited claiming bias toward the F-35, and Boeing’s Super Hornet was later disqualified, leaving only two candidates.
The scoring disparity appears most dramatic in mission performance—the highest-weighted category at 52% of total evaluation points. The F-35 achieved 97% in this critical metric, nearly five times the Gripen’s 22%. Similar gaps emerged across other categories: the F-35 scored 100% in upgradability compared to Gripen’s 28%, and 85% in sustainment versus 81%.
Former Royal Canadian Air Force commander Lieutenant-General Yvan Blondin emphasized the operational implications: “If we send our sons and daughters into combat in these aircraft against Chinese or Russian jets in the Arctic, the aircraft scores 95% or 33%. That should be the first factor we consider.”
Despite these results, Saab continues lobbying Ottawa, emphasizing lower operating costs, rapid maintenance capabilities, and potential Canadian industrial participation through joint production with Bombardier. Industrial policy considerations have gained relevance following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s directive to review the F-35 procurement amid rising US trade tensions.
The Department of National Defence has completed its internal reassessment, though the report remains unpublished. With capability data now public, government justification for any deviation from full F-35 procurement will face increased scrutiny.
Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764237646460-991