Canada needs a fighter jet that propels our ability to defend North America

The current fleet of CF-18 fighter jets must be retired in 2032. Therefore, we need to act fast. Planning is already underway to ensure a smooth transition from old fighter jets to new.

A model of a Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is pictured at the CANSEC trade show in Ottawa on June 1, 2022.The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY SENATOR REBECCA PATTERSON

May 25, 2026

“Not to have an adequate air force in the present state of the world is to compromise the foundations of national freedom and independence.” —Winston Churchill, 1934

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