Canada's Fighter Jet Procurement Stalls as Global Allies Forge Ahead
While most allied nations are actively developing sixth-generation fighter aircraft, Canada remains embroiled in a protracted debate over whether to acquire fifth- or fourth-generation jets. Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent announcement of a new Defence Industrial Strategy has done little to clarify the nation's direction, instead fueling further uncertainty about the future of its air combat capabilities.
Carney's Strategy: Shifting Focus to Domestic Production
Prime Minister Carney's plan emphasizes a transition from purchasing foreign-made military equipment to bolstering domestic manufacturing. This strategic pivot raises critical questions about the fate of the F-35 Lightning II program and whether Canada might instead opt for Sweden's Saab Gripen, a fourth-generation fighter accompanied by controversial job creation claims.
The Global Race for Sixth-Generation Dominance
Currently, three major programs are pursuing sixth-generation fighter development:
- The United States is advancing the F-47 program.
- Germany, France, and Spain are collaborating on the Future Combat Air System.
- The United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan are spearheading the Global Combat Air Program, which presents a promising opportunity for Canadian participation.
Joining such a program would position Canadian aerospace firms at the forefront of next-generation aircraft production, mirroring the benefits initially envisioned with the F-35 project.
The F-35: A Proven Performer with Deep Canadian Ties
Contrary to popular belief, the F-35 is not solely an American endeavor. Canada has been involved since 1997 through the Joint Strike Fighter Program, which ultimately yielded the F-35. The jet was selected for purchase in 2010, though political maneuvering delayed acquisition. After a seven-year evaluation process, the F-35 decisively outperformed the Gripen in an open competition, scoring 57.1 out of 60 and meeting 95% of requirements, compared to the Gripen's 19.7 score and 33% compliance.
Economic Implications and Job Realities
The F-35 program already supports 3,300 direct Canadian jobs manufacturing components across the country, from Lunenberg, Nova Scotia, to Winnipeg, Oakville, and Ottawa. An additional 1,000 construction jobs are underway for necessary infrastructure. If Canada proceeds with purchasing all 88 jets, facilities like L3 Harris near Montreal could become regional maintenance hubs for both Canadian and American fleets.
In contrast, Saab's promise of 10,000 new jobs in Canada appears overstated. An internal government report suggests these figures are inflated by at least 60%, and Brazil's experience with Gripen production—resulting in only 200 total jobs and 60 on the production line—underscores the disparity between claims and reality.
A Call for Decisive Action
With Canadian components integrated into every F-35 and its proven superiority over the Gripen, the path forward seems clear. Procuring the full complement of 88 F-35s would secure existing jobs and enhance military readiness. Subsequently, Canada should actively pursue membership in the Global Combat Air Program to ensure its role in shaping the future of aerial combat. Continued hesitation only jeopardizes national security and economic opportunities in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
