The Canadian government is facing renewed criticism for its inconsistent approach to military procurement, particularly regarding the controversial F-35 fighter jet program. This pattern of political indecision comes at a critical time when Ottawa has pledged to significantly strengthen the country's armed forces.
A History of Procurement Flip-Flops
The Liberal government's handling of the F-35 next-generation fighter jet purchase has been marked by dramatic reversals. After initially cancelling the procurement, the government later reversed its position years later. Now, according to recent discussions, there are indications the Liberals might cancel the deal once more, this time potentially as a reaction against a U.S. president whose term concludes in 2028.
This ongoing uncertainty threatens Canada's military modernization efforts and raises questions about the government's commitment to defense spending.
Expert Analysis on the F-35 Decision
In a National Post Full Comment podcast recorded on November 21, 2025, Brian Lilley spoke with two leading defense experts about the situation. David Bercuson, director of the University of Calgary's Centre for Military and Strategic Studies, and Alan Williams, former assistant deputy minister of materiel at the Department of National Defence, provided insight into the original rationale for selecting the F-35 and the subsequent decision to reaffirm that choice.
The experts expressed concern that short-term political considerations are corrupting what should be a strategic, long-term decision about Canada's military capabilities. They emphasized that this momentous procurement choice could have serious implications for national security, especially given the increasingly dangerous global security environment.
Broader Implications for Canadian Defense
Canada's reputation for politically motivated indecision on major military purchases is deteriorating precisely when consistent defense policy is most needed. The repeated reversals on the F-35 procurement exemplify a broader pattern that undermines military planning and readiness.
The discussion highlighted how political gamesmanship with defense procurement could leave Canada with inadequate air capability at a time when global threats are evolving rapidly. Both experts stressed that such critical decisions should be based on strategic military requirements rather than transient political considerations.
