# Canada F-35 fighter jet procurement review

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/canada-f-35-fighter-jet-procurement-review
> Updated: 2026-10-29T20:40:12.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2.

The Royal Canadian Air Force has received its first two Lockheed Martin CF-35A Lightning II fighter jets at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. These aircraft will support initial training for Canadian pilots and technicians, with arrival in Canada expected in 2028.

Despite this delivery, Prime Minister Mark Carney has paused the planned order of 88 stealth fighter jets to conduct a defense purchase review. This evaluation, prompted by trade and annexation threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, may lead Canada to opt for a mixed fleet. Defence Minister David McGuinty noted that the government is considering factors such as industrial benefits and the development of autonomous air systems. 

As part of this potential shift, Swedish manufacturer Saab has announced partnerships with Canadian aerospace companies to explore the possibility of building Gripen E fighter jets within Canada.

## Claims

- The Canadian government is reviewing the planned purchase of 88 F-35 stealth fighters. (reported by 3 sources)
- The Royal Canadian Air Force received its first two F-35 jets at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. (reported by 3 sources)
- Canada has committed financially to purchasing at least the first 16 jets. (reported by 3 sources)
- Saab announced partnerships with Canadian aerospace companies. (reported by 3 sources)
- The government is considering industrial benefits and autonomous air systems in its review. (reported by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-29: Canada reviews F-35 fighter jet purchase order

Canada is reviewing its planned order of 88 F-35 stealth fighters despite the recent delivery of the first two jets to the Royal Canadian Air Force.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/canada-reviews-f-35-fighter-jet-purchase-order

### 2026-10-25: Canada receives first F-35 jets amid procurement review

Canada has received its first two F-35 fighter jets in Arizona, though Prime Minister Mark Carney has paused the full 88-jet order pending a defense review.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/canada-receives-first-pair-of-f-35-fighter-jets-from-the-us

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Cite as: Canada F-35 fighter jet procurement review. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/canada-f-35-fighter-jet-procurement-review