The United States is warning Canada of potential negative consequences if it decides to abandon its planned purchase of 88 American-built F-35 fighter jets, as Canada prepares to release a key military review by September 22.
US Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra said in a May 21 CTV interview that canceling the F-35 deal could threaten the joint US-Canada NORAD alliance, which requires both countries to operate compatible aircraft.
“If Canadians are flying one airplane, we’re flying another airplane, it’s no longer interchangeable,” Hoekstra explained. “And so, that might even threaten NORAD.”
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Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty plans to release the review findings publicly, with the assessment expected to reach Prime Minister Mark Carney for a final decision by late September.
The review comes amid broader US-Canada tensions under President Donald Trump’s administration. Trump has threatened economic measures against Canada, making the country increasingly hostile to US demands.
From March: Canada Is Also Reconsidering F-35 Fighter Jet Purchase As US Tensions Escalate
Canada originally lobbied for and selected the F-35 in a competitive process. The aircraft would integrate seamlessly with US military systems, with America controlling all software upgrades for the planes.
However, the F-35 program itself faces significant challenges. A September 5 Government Accountability Office report highlighted ongoing delays and budget overruns, with costs now exceeding original estimates by $6 billion and delivery pushed back by five years, following nearly two decades of development.
Some retired Canadian military leaders who originally recommended the F-35 now question the purchase. Retired Lt.-Gen. Yvan Blondin, the former air force general, said the purchase should no longer go forward as planned because “the US has become so untrustworthy.”
The US also appears concerned that Canada might purchase alternative fighter jets, including Sweden’s Gripen aircraft, manufactured by Saab.
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