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Canada’s F-35 Review Continues Without Timeline

April 27, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Canada's F-35 purchase review is ongoing with no timeline.
Buying non-US jets remains an option.
A partial fleet split with Saab Gripen is possible.
Canada has made payments for 30 F-35 aircraft.

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Strategic Implications

Canada's prolonged review may indicate concerns about over-reliance on US defense industry, which could suggest a shift towards diversifying defense partnerships. The consideration of non-US manufacturers, such as Saab, may signal a desire for greater autonomy in defense procurement, which could have implications for the North American Aerospace Defense Command partnership.

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What Happened

Ottawa Weighs Fighter Fleet Options Amid Trade Tensions

Canada’s defense minister has confirmed that the review of its plan to purchase 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets is still ongoing, with no timeline given for a final decision. The government is taking the time needed to examine the fighter fleet question thoroughly, with buying jets from non-US manufacturers remaining an option under consideration. Canada signed a C$19 billion contract to acquire 88 F-35As in early 2023, but a review was ordered in March 2025 due to concerns over Canada’s over-reliance on the US defense industry. The review was first reported by AeroTime.

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