The Canadian government is conducting a comprehensive review of its planned acquisition of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, a deal valued at CA$19 billion (US$13.9 billion). Defense Minister David McGuinty confirmed before the Senate Defense Committee that, while the evaluation is ongoing, the government is considering procuring combat aircraft from alternative international suppliers to diversify its fleet.
The procurement plan, originally unveiled in early 2023, shifted in March 2025 when Prime Minister Mark Carney ordered a reassessment of the agreement. He cited concerns over Canada’s “excessive dependence” on the United States defense industry as the main driver behind the strategic review.
“The review of the F-35 purchase continues,” McGuinty said during his testimony. “We are taking the necessary time to study the issue of the fighter fleet very, very carefully.”
Although the review was initially expected to conclude by September, it has faced delays amid intensifying trade tensions with the United States and proposals to split the fleet. Under these scenarios, Ottawa could reduce the number of F-35 aircraft in favor of alternatives such as the Saab JAS 39 Gripen from Saab.
Addressing the potential shift, McGuinty said that “the question of other planes from other countries is on the table as part of the review,” but did not provide a timeline for a final decision.
The uncertainty contrasts with earlier internal recommendations. In August, reports indicated that officials within Canada’s defense establishment supported maintaining the original all-F-35 plan. Canada also remains contractually committed to financing the first 16 units of the Lockheed Martin aircraft, regardless of the outcome of the broader review.