Feds’ $27-billion F-35 fighter jet contract remains top choice for defence experts, despite NDP push for Gripen

Canada made a deal in 2023 for American defence contractor Lockheed Martin to supply 88 F-35 aircraft to replace its aging CF-18 fleet at a projected cost of $19-billion. That cost later increased to more than $27-billion. However, in March 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney ordered a review of that deal amid deteriorating bilateral relations with the U.S.
In March 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney ordered a review of a 2023 deal for U.S. defence contractor Lockheed Martin to supply 88 F-35 aircraft to replace Canada's aging CF-18 fleet.

Defence sector experts say Canada should follow through on the purchase of American F-35 fighter jets instead of the Swedish-built Gripen planes recommended by the NDP, arguing that the former offers superior capabilities that are more important than the political concerns o...

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