- Canadian PM orders review of 88 F-35 jets purchase amid Trump-era tensions
- Program lifecycle costs projected at CA$70 billion over 30 years
- Lockheed Martin contract remains active for initial 16 aircraft
- Portugal joins growing list of allies questioning US defense partnerships
- Anti-American sentiment impacts cross-border tourism and trade
The Canadian government has launched an urgent reassessment of its largest military procurement in three decades, with Defense Minister Bill Blair spearheading a review of the CA$19 billion F-35 fighter jet agreement. This strategic pivot comes as escalating trade disputes with the United States prompt Ottawa to reevaluate its dependence on American defense technology. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration faces mounting pressure to balance military modernization with economic sovereignty concerns.
Industry analysts note the review could delay delivery timelines by 12-18 months, creating potential gaps in North American air defense capabilities. “The F-35’s advanced stealth technology remains unmatched,” stated aerospace expert Dr. Élise Tremblay, “but political risks now outweigh technical advantages for many NATO members.” Recent data shows 34% of Canada’s aerospace contractors have begun exploring partnerships with European manufacturers as insurance against US trade volatility.
Portugal’s defense ministry has mirrored Canada’s caution, postponing its F-16 replacement program indefinitely. Defense Minister Nuno Melo cited “unpredictable maintenance restrictions” in leaked documents, highlighting growing European apprehension about US export controls. This continental shift coincides with Saab’s announcement to reopen its Montreal manufacturing facility, positioning the Gripen-E as a viable alternative to American jets.
The procurement controversy has spilled into consumer markets, with Statistics Canada reporting a 17% year-over-year decline in US automotive sales. Tourism Quebec notes hotel cancellations for Florida vacations have tripled since January, while Alberta beef exports to California fell 22% last quarter. Economists warn prolonged tensions could erase CA$4.3 billion from bilateral trade by 2025.
Defense planners emphasize the review doesn’t cancel existing contracts, with Lockheed Martin confirming production of Canada’s first 16 jets remains on schedule. However, internal memos reveal the RCAF has accelerated testing of Sweden’s Gripen and Eurofighter Typhoon models. “Interoperability with NORAD systems remains non-negotiable,” stated Air Command spokesperson Col. André Lacroix, “but we’re exploring middleware solutions for non-US aircraft.”
