Canadians watching the ongoing debate about the country's next fighter jet fleet might mistakenly believe the discussion centers solely on whether the F-35 represents the optimal choice for national security needs. According to former military leader Mark Norman, the reality proves far more complex, touching upon fundamental questions about Canadian identity and strategic priorities in an increasingly unstable global landscape.
The Strategic Imperative Beyond Technical Specifications
In his recent commentary, Norman emphasizes that the decision transcends mere technical comparisons between aircraft. Canada's next fighter fleet will serve as an enduring symbol of national values and security commitments at this critical historical juncture. The prolonged deliberation stems from what Norman characterizes as collective and systemic incompetence in defence planning over preceding decades, which has paradoxically afforded the current government both the blessing and curse of choice.
Norman expresses support for reviewing the planned purchase of 88 F-35 aircraft, though not because he considers it the wrong selection. Rather, he believes the scrutiny has compelled necessary conversations about national priorities amid rapidly changing global circumstances that scarcely resemble the landscape of just one year ago.
Reconciling Competing National Interests
The former military leader identifies three primary tensions the government must balance in its decision: required military capabilities, the relationship with the United States, and broader economic interests. While the F-35 demonstrates technical superiority in many respects, Norman notes this advantage carries significant costs including higher upfront pricing, technological dependence on the United States, and substantial infrastructure and sustainment expenses.
Conversely, the F-35 offers undeniable benefits through seamless integration with U.S. air defences via NORAD, superior operational capabilities in certain scenarios, and participation in a multinational supply chain. The competing Gripen option presents different advantages that may better serve particular Canadian requirements.
A Bold Proposal: Why Not Both?
Norman challenges the binary thinking dominating the conversation, proposing instead that Canada consider acquiring a robust fleet of both aircraft types. He envisions a hybrid approach where different fighters serve complementary roles—some providing air defence domestically while others, potentially including both Gripens and F-35s, stand ready for international deployment.
Imagine a hybrid fleet of both aircraft providing air defence at home, alongside squadrons of Gripens and F-35s ready to deploy abroad, Norman writes, posing the rhetorical question: Is that not who we should be as a country?
The commentary acknowledges that whatever path the government selects will face vigorous criticism and celebration from opposing perspectives. With operational impacts representing just one consideration among many strategic factors, Norman suggests the ongoing interventions by external experts primarily add noise rather than clarity to an already complex decision-making process.
Published on November 24, 2023, Norman's analysis arrives as pressure mounts on the government to declare its chosen direction for replacing Canada's aging fighter fleet, a decision with implications stretching decades into the nation's future.
