Canada pauses F-35 purchase, weighs Saab Gripen as alternative

Canada has sharply reduced its planned acquisition of Lockheed Martin F‑35A fighters, cutting the order from 88 jets to 16, with an option for 14 more, after a review triggered by rising costs and strained U.S. relations. The government is now evaluating the Swedish Saab Gripen E as a possible replacement, highlighting the aircraft’s promise of a secure Canadian data centre and the creation of roughly 12,000 domestic jobs.

Saab’s proposal emphasizes data sovereignty and local employment, while Lockheed Martin counters with plans for an F‑35 maintenance hub in Quebec and the existing Canadian supply‑chain involvement of over 110 firms. Canada is also exploring a mixed‑fleet concept that would combine F‑35s and Gripen Es, though officials warn of logistical and NORAD‑operational complications. Additionally, Canada has secured observer status in the UK‑led sixth‑generation fighter program (GCAP) alongside Italy and Japan, signalling a broader reassessment of reliance on U.S. defence technology.