Industry Minister Mélanie Joly is urging U.S.-based Lockheed Martin to enhance the economic benefits for Canada if the government proceeds with the planned purchase of 88 F-35 fighter jets. In a recent interview with Radio-Canada’s Les coulisses du pouvoir, Joly mentioned that Ottawa might consider a smaller fleet of F-35s and the addition of Gripen-E fighter jets from Sweden’s Saab, with an option for Saab to assemble the jets in Canada.
Prime Minister Mark Carney continues to deliberate on the $27.7-billion fighter jet contract as Joly explores two potential paths for the F-35 review initiated in March. She highlighted the possibility of securing extra economic advantages from Lockheed Martin to uphold the full contract or opting for a reduced number of F-35s.
Although Canada is obligated to acquire at least 16 of the 88 planned Lockheed Martin jets, Joly emphasized the importance of maximizing benefits from the F-35 contract while engaging in discussions with Saab.
Regarding the procurement of a mixed fleet, Joly expressed confidence in managing the complexity, emphasizing that all G7 countries have similar setups. As Canada boosts its defense spending, Joly outlined priorities including enhancing military capabilities, fortifying alliances, and boosting job creation in the Canadian military-industrial sector.
During recent parliamentary testimony, Deputy Minister Stefanie Beck and Lt.-Gen. Jamie Speiser-Blanchet advocated for fifth-generation fighter jets like the F-35 due to their stealth features and information-processing speed. They stressed the urgency of transitioning to a new fighter fleet, citing the advanced capabilities of adversaries like China and Russia.
Saab highlighted the upgradability of its Gripen fighter, emphasizing its evolving technology. Ottawa announced the F-35 purchase in 2023 after assessing economic benefits from both Lockheed Martin and Saab.
Experts, including David Perry from the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, and military expert Philippe Lagassé raised concerns about Ottawa’s negotiation leverage with Lockheed Martin and potential repercussions in the U.S. relationship. However, the Canadian Armed Forces remain prepared for the introduction of the F-35 jets as planned.
In conclusion, the government faces critical decisions on the fighter jet acquisition, balancing economic benefits, strategic defense needs, and international relations in the evolving defense landscape.
