Canadian officials are seeking alternatives to American F-35 fighters amid President Donald Trump's foreign policy. This was reported by CBC citing Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair. "These fighters were previously considered unacceptable for the Canadian Armed Forces, but we are also exploring other options. We will be asking whether it is necessary for all our fighters to be F-35 models," Blair emphasized. The head of the Defence Department also noted that the prime minister plans to consider this issue and conduct consultations with other sources, including those that may provide opportunities for the assembly of fighters within Canada.
Blair added that Canada may acquire F-35s, but in the future might turn to fighters from European suppliers, such as the Swedish Saab Gripen. He stressed that Swedish fighters will be assembled and serviced in Canada, unlike American ones, which are serviced in the USA.
Canadian officials and the Armed Forces are considering the best options that reflect national interests and Canada's procurement policy. Calls have arisen from Canadians to their government to cancel the $19 billion contract for the purchase of American F-35s. It should be noted that by the present time, Canada has already paid for 16 fighters and expects to receive them by early 2026.
It is still unclear what expenses Canada will have to incur if it decides to withdraw from the contract for the purchase of American fighters. In August 2024, Blair stated that Canada would receive new F-35 fighters, patrol aircraft, and combat vessels, which will become a platform for joint cooperation with Australia.
It is important to note that Trump described former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who left office, as "the governor of Canada’s great province," and stated that Canada could avoid import tariffs imposed by Washington and would receive military protection if it were to join the USA as the 51st state.
