Canada Chooses the F-35, Securing Its Air Power for the Future

After more than a decade of deliberation, political shifts, and intense evaluation, Canada has made a definitive decision in its long-running fighter jet competition. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) is set to enter a new era of air combat superiority, having officially selected the Lockheed Martin F-35 as its next-generation fighter. This choice solidifies a major defense procurement, positioning Canada alongside its closest allies with a cornerstone of modern warfare technology.

The competition, known as the Future Fighter Capability Project, ultimately saw the American-made F-35 Lightning II triumph over the Swedish Saab Gripen E. This decision marks a pivotal moment for Canada’s military, its aerospace industry, and its role within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

A Long and Winding Road to a Final Decision

The journey to replace Canada’s aging fleet of CF-18 Hornets has been anything but straightforward. The story began over a decade ago when the previous Conservative government initially committed to the F-35 program. However, that plan was scrapped by the incoming Liberals in 2015, who pledged not to buy the F-35 and launched a formal competition to ensure a transparent and fair process.

This open tender pitted two finalists against each other:

For years, both companies engaged in a high-stakes battle, submitting thousands of pages of documentation and undergoing rigorous assessment by the Department of National Defence. The evaluation was comprehensive, looking beyond just the sticker price of the aircraft. Officials delved into the technical capabilities, long-term maintenance costs, industrial benefits for Canada, and how seamlessly each jet would integrate with the fleets of key allies like the United States.

Why the F-35 Emerged Victorious

The selection of the F-35 was not based on a single factor, but rather a holistic assessment of what Canada needs for its national sovereignty and international obligations for the next 40 years. The decision hinged on several critical advantages offered by the Lightning II.

Unmatched Stealth and Survivability

The F-35’s most significant edge is its advanced stealth technology. This capability allows the jet to operate in heavily defended airspace where older-generation fighters would be vulnerable. For a country with a vast territory like Canada, the ability to identify and neutralize threats before being detected is a game-changer for protecting northern sovereignty and contributing to demanding NATO missions.

Sensor Fusion: The “Brain” of the Battlefield

Often described as a “flying supercomputer,” the F-35’s true power lies in its sensor fusion. The jet’s systems gather data from a multitude of sensors—onboard and from other platforms like ships, satellites, and other aircraft—and integrate it into a single, intuitive picture for the pilot. This gives the F-35 pilot unparalleled situational awareness, a decisive advantage in any combat scenario.

Interoperability with Key Allies

Canada’s closest military partners, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Norway, are all operating or have ordered the F-35. Choosing the same platform ensures seamless communication, shared maintenance logistics, and the ability to conduct complex joint operations. This interoperability is a force multiplier and was a crucial consideration for a nation that relies heavily on allied cooperation for its defense.

The Gripen E’s Offer: A Compelling Alternative

Saab’s Gripen E presented a strong and credible alternative. Its proposal emphasized different strengths, primarily focused on cost-effectiveness and operational flexibility.

The Gripen E was widely perceived to have a lower initial purchase price, making it an attractive option from a budgetary perspective.

Saab designed the Gripen to be maintained with a small ground crew and to operate from shorter, rudimentary runways, including highways. This offers a degree of operational resilience.

Saab offered an unprecedented level of autonomy, proposing to establish a domestic final assembly line and transfer all technical data to Canada. This would have given Canada complete control over maintenance and upgrades without relying on the manufacturer.

Despite these attractive points, the DND’s evaluation concluded that the F-35’s superior combat capabilities and long-term value outweighed the Gripen’s advantages.

Industrial Benefits and Economic Impact for Canada

A major component of the competition was the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) package. Both companies committed to generating significant economic activity within Canada’s aerospace and defense sectors.

Lockheed Martin has pledged to create and sustain thousands of jobs across the country. Canadian companies are already deeply integrated into the F-35’s global supply chain, having contributed over $2.5 billion in parts and services to date. This existing relationship is set to expand, with new contracts and high-value work in areas like artificial intelligence, simulation training, and advanced manufacturing. This ensures that a substantial portion of the multi-billion-dollar investment flows back into the Canadian economy.

What’s Next for the Royal Canadian Air Force?

The government has confirmed an initial order for 88 F-35 aircraft, with the first deliveries expected to begin in 2026. The plan is to stand up the first operational squadron by 2032 and achieve full operational capability by the end of 2034. This phased approach allows for the careful establishment of new infrastructure, pilot and technician training programs, and a smooth transition from the legacy CF-18s.

This acquisition does more than just replace an old jet; it transforms the RCAF. The F-35 will provide Canada with a toolset for 21st-century threats, from peer-state competition to the defense of North America through NORAD. It ensures that Canadian pilots have the best possible equipment when they are called upon to defend Canada’s interests at home and abroad.

A Defining Choice for National Defense

The selection of the F-35 Lightning II closes a long and complex chapter in Canadian defense procurement. While the Gripen E offered an intriguing path focused on sovereignty and cost, the comprehensive evaluation determined that the F-35’s unmatched technological edge and strategic alignment with key allies were paramount.

This decision secures Canada’s air power for generations to come. It is a significant investment not only in military hardware but in the nation’s security, its industrial base, and its standing on the world stage. By choosing the F-35, Canada is making a clear statement about its commitment to a modern, capable, and interoperable defense force ready to face the challenges of the future.