Canada Preserves Options in Fighter Replacement Plan Amid US Pressure

Canada has confirmed it is making payments tied to long-lead components for 14 additional F-35A fighters, Prime Minister Mark Carney said in Parliament. The move preserves production timing and options, but the review of the full 88-jet plan continues. Radio Canada first reported the payments, which would take the number of aircraft in the pipeline to 30. Ottawa is weighing scenarios that could reduce the eventual F-35 buy while adding a second fighter type, such as Saab’s Gripen E. The US Ambassador to Canada has warned that NORAD would have to be altered if Canada pulls back from the planned 88 F-35s.