Former high-ranking officials from the Canadian Armed Forces are advocating for the acquisition of 88 American F-35 fighter jets, aiming to halt discussions between the Canadian government and Swedish company Saab. A group of twelve former high-ranking officers of the Royal Canadian Air Force sent a letter to government officials emphasizing the advantages of procuring a full fleet of F-35s to meet Canada’s military requirements.
The signatories are urging the government not to reduce the F-35 order and substitute it with Gripen-E fighter jets from Saab, a Swedish company offering job creation opportunities in Canada. The letter, sent to key decision-makers including Prime Minister Mark Carney, comes after a review was initiated in response to concerns raised by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding expansionist threats.
Among the signatories is Tom Lawson, a former chief of the defence staff of the Canadian Armed Forces, who highlighted the unmatched quality of the F-35 compared to the Gripen fighter jets. Lawson stressed the importance of maintaining the F-35 purchase to enhance Canada’s military capabilities, citing superior stealth features and data integration capabilities of the F-35s.
Although recognizing the government’s interest in diversifying military equipment sources, Lawson cautioned against reducing the F-35 order as a means to signal the U.S., emphasizing the potential shortcomings of opting for a secondary fleet of Gripen jets. The government, while exploring options with Saab, has not committed to purchasing additional Gripen-E fighters.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized the need for increased economic benefits from Lockheed Martin, the F-35 manufacturer, amid ongoing discussions. Failure to proceed with the planned acquisition of 88 F-35s could result in job losses and economic impacts, as highlighted by Canadian officials at L3Harris MAS, currently involved in CF-18 fighter jet maintenance.
Discussions are ongoing for establishing a maintenance center in Mirabel to support Canadian F-35s, with Lockheed Martin officials scheduled to visit the facilities. The potential purchase of Swedish fighter jets and electronic surveillance aircraft has been fueled by the Swedish king’s state visit, prompting considerations for partnerships and economic benefits.
L3Harris MAS underlined the economic viability of the Mirabel site with a full fleet of F-35s, warning of job layoffs and job losses if the fleet is reduced. The company stressed the importance of a comprehensive fleet of F-35s to sustain jobs and economic benefits in Canada. Discussions are ongoing for acquiring new electronic surveillance aircraft, with various suppliers competing for the contract.
