Canada Advances F-35 Acquisition with Component Payments
Canada has begun making payments for key components for an additional 14 U.S.-built F-35 fighter jets, a move that comes amidst an ongoing review of the broader F-35 procurement by the Canadian government. These payments are for 'long-lead items,' which are specialized parts that must be ordered years in advance of a complete aircraft's assembly and delivery. This latest commitment is separate from Canada's initial order of 16 F-35s, bringing the total number of F-35s for which payments have been initiated to 30.
Securing Production and Fleet Modernization
Sources familiar with the procurement process indicate that these expenditures were necessary to maintain Canada's position in the long-term delivery schedule and prevent other buyers from taking production slots. The Department of National Defence has not publicly confirmed the additional purchase, stating that the review of the F-35 contract remains underway. The F-35s are intended to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force's (RCAF) aging CF-18 Hornet fleet.
Canada's overall plan, announced in January 2023, is to acquire a total of 88 F-35A Lightning II jets. The first 16 F-35s are expected to begin arriving in 2026, with deliveries continuing until 2030, and the first aircraft anticipated to arrive in Canada in 2028. The additional 14 jets, for which components are now being paid, would be delivered at a later stage.
Financial and Strategic Context
The estimated total cost for Canada's F-35 program, encompassing the acquisition, operations, and sustainment of 88 jets over a 45-year lifespan, is approximately $73.9 billion CAD. The acquisition phase alone is projected to cost around $19.8 billion CAD. Each F-35 jet is estimated to cost about US$85 million.
The current review by the Carney government was initiated following renewed trade tensions between the United States and Canada. This review has also explored the possibility of a 'mixed fleet,' potentially including Saab Gripen jets, with Saab having proposed expanding production capabilities within Canada. Despite these ongoing strategic evaluations, the payments for F-35 components underscore a commitment to securing future capabilities for the RCAF.
5 Comments
Loubianka
This feels like caving to US pressure, not an independent defense strategy. Very disappointing.
Katchuka
The F-35 is a highly capable fighter jet, and Canada certainly needs to upgrade its air force. Yet, the $73.9 billion projected cost over 45 years is staggering, and we must ensure this investment doesn't detract from other critical public services or force future budget cuts.
Muchacho
Another wasteful military spending spree. That $73.9 billion could fix so much domestically.
Coccinella
Essential investment for national security. We need top-tier defense capabilities.
ZmeeLove
Securing production slots for advanced aircraft is strategically sound to avoid future delays. However, the immense long-term cost of the F-35 program raises serious questions about its sustainability and whether this is the best use of taxpayer money for our defense priorities.