Canada is on the verge of doing something that would confirm what its critics have long suspected: that it is no longer a serious country when it comes to national defense. There are credible signals out of Ottawa that the government may cancel – or at least scale back – its planned purchase of the F-35 fighter jet.
If that happens, it won’t be a strategic pivot. It won’t be a prudent reassessment. It will be a retreat – one that strips away the last illusions of Canadian military relevance in an increasingly unforgiving world.
PHILIPPINE SEA (May. 13, 2022) An F-35C Lightning II assigned to the “Black Knights” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314 launches from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Singley) 220513-N-MM912-1002
Canada and the F-35: Let the Problems Begin
Let’s not pretend this is about cost. Or capability. Or even sovereignty. This is about political will – and Canada’s chronic lack of it when it comes to anything involving hard power.
For years, the F-35 was an easy political punching bag: over budget, behind schedule, and conveniently American. It became a litmus test for Liberals eager to signal independence from Washington and avoid making hard choices about airpower.
But now the plane is flying. It’s fully integrated into NATO and NORAD planning.
It’s being fielded by nearly every serious military in the Western alliance. And Canada, after years of half-involvement, finally committed to buying 88 of them – on paper, at least.
But that paper promise is now in danger of being torn up.
Walking away from the F-35 at this point would be more than just a procurement failure. It would be a strategic failure of the highest order. It would signal to our allies, especially the United States, that Canada is not willing to equip itself with the capabilities needed to defend its own skies – let alone contribute meaningfully to continental defense or NATO’s evolving posture. In a world of great power rivalry, where even traditionally peaceful regions are being drawn into hardened blocs and power projection contests, that kind of message is suicidal.
F-35 vs. JAS 39 Gripen in Canada
Let’s be blunt: there is no alternative that offers anything close to what the F-35 provides. Not the Swedish Gripen. Not a modernized Super Hornet. Not some mythical homegrown jet that Canada has neither the industrial base nor the strategic patience to build.
The F-35 is not just a fighter; it’s an intelligence-gathering, stealth-enabled, data-fusing node designed to operate as part of a larger, digitally integrated force. That’s exactly what Canada needs for the Arctic, for NORAD, and for the kinds of coalition operations it claims to want to support.
Those pushing for a Gripen purchase dress it up in the language of sovereignty, cost-effectiveness, and independence. But that’s fantasy. The Gripen relies on American engines, American weapons, and NATO-compatible avionics.
And now that Sweden has joined NATO, it carries no unique geopolitical benefit. What it lacks – stealth, deep-range sensor fusion, and interoperability with U.S. and allied F-35 fleets – makes it not only less capable, but strategically irrelevant in any real-world scenario Canada would face.
Nor would a pivot save money. Canada has already spent hundreds of millions keeping its place at the F-35 consortium table. It has begun adapting its infrastructure and training pipelines to the aircraft. It is set to benefit from industrial participation and long-term sustainment contracts. Scrapping the buy now would throw all that away – and saddle taxpayers with the cost of starting over, again, from scratch.
A New Era
More importantly, it would send the wrong signal at the worst possible time.
We are already in an era when Washington is reevaluating what it expects from allies. Canada has long relied on geography, goodwill, and historical ties to cushion its underperformance. That cushion is wearing thin. Our defense spending remains well below NATO’s 2% benchmark.
Beast Mode F-35 Fighter. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
Our Arctic infrastructure is inadequate. Our submarine fleet is aging into obsolescence. If we also decide not to field the one aircraft that would allow us to patrol our own skies in a networked defense environment, then what exactly are we bringing to the table?
This isn’t just about U.S. pressure, though that pressure is real. It’s about whether Canada still understands the basics of sovereignty in an age when territory, intelligence, and rapid response are again becoming central to statecraft. The F-35 allows Canada to project power credibly in its own northern frontier. It allows it to plug into U.S. and NATO systems seamlessly. It allows it to share burdens rather than offload them. Without it, Canada would become less a partner than a dependent.
F-35: Too Much Money?
Some will argue that we can’t afford the F-35. But what we really can’t afford is the illusion that sovereignty can be maintained with legacy aircraft, goodwill, and moralistic speeches. The world is shifting. Russia is modernizing its Arctic posture. China is expanding its influence into the North Pacific. The U.S. is demanding more of its allies – yes, even in this second Trump term, perhaps especially now.
That reality doesn’t require panic. But it does require seriousness. And seriousness means matching rhetoric with capability.
SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 25, 2021) Lt. Nicholas Eppler, from Exeter, Calif., directs flight operations as an F-35C Lightning II assigned to the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 launches from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Oct. 25, 2021. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Emily Claire Bennett) 211025-N-TY704-1241
Dumping the F-35 now would be a definitive sign that Canada is done pretending to be a credible defense partner. It would mean surrendering the future of our airpower to cheaper options that won’t deter, won’t survive, and won’t matter. It would mean turning away from the one platform that gives Canada the ability to operate in – and defend – the domains that matter most to its national interest.
And if we do walk away, the consequences won’t be abstract. They’ll be concrete. Reduced influence in Washington. Less access to the U.S. defense industrial base. Marginalization in NORAD and NATO planning. And a growing perception that Canada is little more than a territorial appendage of American defense space—unarmed, unready, and unworthy of trust.
The F-35 isn’t a panacea. But it is a signal – of seriousness, of integration, and of resolve. Abandoning it now, just as the world is growing more dangerous and unpredictable, would tell our allies – and ourselves – that we no longer believe in any of those things.
And in a decade defined not by order but by fracture, that’s not a choice Canada can afford to make.
About the Author: Dr. Andrew Latham
Andrew Latham is a non-resident fellow at Defense Priorities and a professor of international relations and political theory at Macalester College in Saint Paul, MN. Andrew is now a Contributing Editor to 19FortyFive, where he writes a daily column. You can follow him on X: @aakatham.
waco
April 24, 2025 at 8:25 am
What Canada needs is a fighter that can launch tactical nukes from stand-off distances.
Because the war of tomorrow requires use of tactical nukes.
Fighter jets capable of launching tactical nukes from a stand-off range need to have external pylons, thus potentially ruling out the f-35.
Fighter jets like the MiG-31, rafale and eurofighter typhoon.
They can launch rocket-propelled tactical nukes off the rails of their external pylons.
Such weapons are needed even now, as trump on Wednesday, April 23 2025, warned European leaders not to fight for another three years, otherwise they are sure gonna lose everything.
Everything gonna be lost, due to immense heat, vaporization and radiation. The euros need to heed trump’s April 23 2025 words of wisdom.
Adzer Delphi Kant
April 24, 2025 at 12:29 pm
Plenty of what you stay here is false.
1. Sweden is part of NATO, it is a dependable ally.
2. Rolls Royce can and want to supply the engines, and
3. Yes, as you pointed out, it is compatible with US tech.
Adzer Delphi Kant
April 24, 2025 at 12:40 pm
The Gripen is built to fight with Russia, and
It has external pylons.
And Wacom, the most important thing to defend for Europe is the RBIO, the Rules Based International Order that has been in effect since the 1940’s and that Trump, in his infinite stupidity, is wrecking like a drunken sailor.
Adzer Delphi Kant
April 24, 2025 at 12:41 pm
*waco
HansHK
April 24, 2025 at 12:53 pm
Credibility. Something that the US lost. Do not use this word.
Gurpal Khaira
April 24, 2025 at 2:31 pm
This article paints false scenarios. USA under Trump is not reliable partner or ally. It is threatening world economic stability and is displaying ethnic, religious, and racial discrimination
Philip Street AIBC Architect
April 24, 2025 at 5:52 pm
Buy 32 F35 planes and 68 Gripen E planes. A typical flight wing is 4 aircraft, 1 of 4 is F35 with 3 Gripen, F35 is quarter back in the wing which network with Gripen E. Best of both worlds. Why this stats only 55% of F35 available for flight, while 80-90% of Gripen E available. % of planes not available under maintenance etc. Available flight wings 18, which is 18 F35s & 54 Gripen E. Save on plane costs wrt Gripen, maintenance, flight hour costs, manufacture in Canada plane and parts and fuel, planes ie Gripen available if F35 problems then drop them, keep US honest & their feet to the fire! Canada STRONG!!!
Hi there!
April 25, 2025 at 3:25 am
Yeah right, talking about a dependable partner, and the US is the laughing stock all over the world.
James
April 25, 2025 at 6:40 am
America should pull this deal from Canada. Canada’s military is woefully underfunded, unprepared, undermanned and completely obsolete and is in no way ready for a weapon system like the F35. It’s military doesn’t have the infrastructure to support such a sophisticated weapon system. Through these trade squabbles, Canada has been exposed and the world can now see she is an unreliable partner in the defense of North America and for force projection should NATO call upon her for assistance.
Jake
April 25, 2025 at 8:16 am
I agree with Phillips comments on mixing up our air cap and the ratio. However, I have serious concerns about overall numbers of aircrafts needed, far from realistic (we need at least double the number of fighter ac). The canadian govt needs to make this a top pri coming out of the election and getting this sorted. Dumping the F-35 will create additional problems with rippling effects across all future procurements which involve US in the supply chain (and that crosses into Naval systems, etc). So we don’t want to create a larger/longer prob by chopping the F-35 completely, simply reduce the overall numbers and introduce a second ac to fill the capability gap.
Vincent
April 25, 2025 at 8:30 am
What the author conveniently omits is the core reason for Canada looking at options other than the F35. The US has become an increasingly hostile ‘ally’ and as it controls source code and parts for the F35, it can simply deny access thus severely reducing the capability of the aircraft at best or reducing it to scrap at worst.
Swamplaw Yankee
April 25, 2025 at 10:12 am
Defence spending is not an election issue for any leadership candidate. Defence is dead in Canada. There are only pennies for Ukraine. This is not Canada of 1939. General Richard Rohmer, 102 years old, is a flash back to a real Canada.
Yankee yellooou belliiiiiies refuse to make this 5% of GNP an issue in Canada. So, for the next 5 years, tiny Iceland will be stronger than Canada defence wise. The inner beltway deep state commies are so happy that 98% of Canada refuses to even consider or hear of 3 % of GNP.
The commie pinkoe CBC will double in size + report double zero, triple zero on the next Bin Ladin type attack on the USA from Canada.
Latham is dreaming about the F35. Latham needs to re-read some of the waco comment submissions. A muslim fighter frame from Erdogan seems a better Jimmy the greek bet for Canada.
The Yankee Doodles all sleep as this 5 year time frame for Canada is bamboozled by the capital rich managers of foreign money inside Canada. The charity scam of moving billions of cash to assist leftie pinkoe Putin and Han CCP interests inside Canada is so well legal in Canada. The peer reader will notice that in Canada there is zero record of billions of charity cash flowing from the USA into Canada. Why, where, how, when, the old questions is so very private under the Trudeau fascist-like federal structure. The Canada Revenue Agency is ready to freeze your little account, you worm, for a twenty dollar bill. -30-
RDG
April 28, 2025 at 9:24 am
Those seem to be words you put together like a big boy. Well done.
Swamplaw Yankee
April 25, 2025 at 10:31 am
Latham sounds so serious. That type of rare Canadian sounds like Ukrainians in 1919 when Symon Petlura lead an Independent Ukraine. Latham needs to detail the Han CPP triad interests inCanada. Latham needs to detail the Putin orc muscovite elite FSB cells in Canada. What the USA alphabet agencies refuse to tell the USA public how extensive the commie interests are now in Canada.
Petlura was butchered out by Putin’s grandpa. He personally was hand killed by an orc russian in Paris. Today, zhimmie and his parrot shill trolls promote the orc version of the Potemkin Village MSM version of ancient independent Ukraine
Latham will be stone walled by the current MSM CBC in Canada. Only in a tiny niche side show like 1945 can a rare person like Latham expand on what Canada could have been. Latham could be lamenting the Avro Arrow Orenda fighter engine scam run by the Yankee inner beltway.
Peer readers: watch the results of the federal elections! 100% guarantee of zero chance of a 5, 4 or 3 % GNP defence budget in Canada for 5 years. Trump will be a memory then!! -30-
Bruce
April 25, 2025 at 10:55 am
What an arrogant article! Canada doesn’t want to cancel contracts for any other reason than the fact that your president is trying to Cripple our economy for whatever reason, let’s be clear about that.
Also the smug assertion that Canada does not have the industrial base or patience to build a sophisticated aircraft is laughable. There is a ton of ingenuity and great minds in this country, it wouldn’t happen tomorrow obviously.
I do admit it is taken way longer than it should have but we are allies and great friends not adversaries. It’s pathetic your president is going to pit us against one another when there should be greater cooperation and less barriers. It’s absolutely laughable that Canada somehow screwing the US over 😂
Mats Lundstrom
April 25, 2025 at 5:08 pm
So why exactly are we defending ourselves against? Having a US president declaring completely unwarranted and severe economic warfare on Canada, aligning with murderous Russia, and suggesting we should be the 51st state will require a serious re-evaluation. You forgot to mention that the US have complete control of the software in the F-35.
Anything else that a complete reevaluation would be completely irresponsible, as this decision will have implications for decades. This has nothing to do with technology or airplanes anymore. Sadly, your arguments live in a past that no longer exists.
Ron Van Pelt
April 25, 2025 at 6:16 pm
Really imo there just no option yhe F-35 is it period.
So l completely agree with the author.
One huge benefit of this is due to the delay by the time we get them most of the new improvements and software updates are included.
The major ones are the new an/apg 85 radar, improved DAS, and latest bloc of code.
So pun intended, “cool your jets folks”.
J
April 25, 2025 at 10:20 pm
The F35 program has been a mess since inception. software as well as structural issues. Now the USA can’t even keep their own jets in the air.
Richard Jonsson
April 26, 2025 at 1:36 pm
An article as lengthy and angled as it is misinformed. The author consequently manages to turn a blind side to the problems and weak sides of the F-35, while simultaneously pointing out Gripens strong points as if they were weaknesses. The Gripen have been operating in close cooperation w NATO forces since the C and D models. With the new E model it’s essentially a new aircraft with a systems architecture that leads itself to easier upgrades and integration than that of the F-35. Instead of stealth from sensitive coatings and design sacrificing manueverability the Gripen use clever electronic warfare, a much more agile approach in terms of future growth. All aircraft are multi-factor compromises, solving the same problems in different ways, and the Gripen E is definitely a valid solution to Canada’s needs.
Aidan Turner
April 26, 2025 at 2:54 pm
Why would Canada rely on the USA for ANYTHING ?
Guy
April 26, 2025 at 3:47 pm
Canada has been told they will get a dumbed down version or could be keep from full use of technology. America has made threats towards Canadian sovereignty. Canada would have to stupid to think buying American jets is a good idea.
At any point they can be deprived of parts and full capabilities. With those threats this jet is the worst choice. Take the few that are required under contract and walk.
Tom Mac
April 26, 2025 at 5:14 pm
Six months ago I wouldn’t have believed that I would write something like this nor thought I would need to. First of all the author is an American from Macalester College in Minnesota why does he say “we” as if he is Canadian. This piece is trash, nothing but propaganda from the US. Trump has made it very clear that he wants to take over Canada and is trying to weaken our economy so that he can take it. This is not just a tariff issue he has declared war on our economy so as to force a take over of our country. That is war. Trump is a narcissistic sociopath and he will destroy your democracy. It will be Trump rule. He’s already started tramping over US rights. Open your eyes. His rhetoric is from old world war 2 era US fascist group. So why would you expect us to want to buy American made f35s that need constant updates that can be cut off. Trump already talked about reducing the capacity of the f35s sold to their allies. Do you really think we are that stupid? You started this war I’m not interested in helping you destroy us. Canada has always done their part in defense. We were in both world wars long before the US came into them. Yes you have a bigger population and more money so now you figure you can bully the rest of the world. Just because your bigger does not give you the right to take us over. That is how Putin thinks and how every other tyrant out there thinks. Oh right.. those are all Trump’s heroes. Are they yours too? I am a Canadian/US citizen living in Canada and frankly I am now embarrassed to admit being American at all. Make America great again ya right! On the backs of the rest of the world. El Presidante Trump is after Canada because of our resources. Trump says the US doesn’t need anything from Canada. Then leave us alone. If you don’t want to trade with us fine. Then we will trade with other countries. We don’t have to trade with you. But this quick attack makes it difficult because it will take time to set up other trading partners. But hey guess what? It will cost you more. I, like many other Canadians have already stopped buying American products. Why should I trust the US, why should Canada Trust the US, why should the world trust the US. What I don’t understand is why do you trust Trump? He lies all the time. He contradicts himself all the time. He set up the last Canada US and Mexico deal. He claimed it to be the best deal ever and now he says we’re ripping off the US. He also claimed Canada is smuggling huge amounts of fentanyl into the US but hey guess what? That has been proven to be pure fiction, straight out of the twisted mind of your president. He doesn’t even bother to make decent lies up because the mass will believe him because he has you all pumped up on “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN”. That’s exactly how Hitler did it. Build National pride to a frenzy and then you can do anything.
WAKE UP AMERICA BEFORE IT’S TO LATE FOR YOU TOO
Since when does a country attack its peaceful allies and then cozy up Russia. Putin loves this. Do you want to know who your enemy really is? Donald Trump
Jbq
April 26, 2025 at 7:03 pm
This information is bias to the US government. The operation of the JAS39 in Canada is more cost effective and applicable to Canadian rolls in continental defense. The capability of the F35 is next to nothing in extreme cold, the intercommunnuicability of the techs are already established and the system integration is more feasible than that of the F35. It also has an operational history that is in alignment with Canadian defense priorities, where the F35 is a failure in most environments that do not favor its capabilities, where the Gripen is a highly adaptable platform that exceedsthe multi roll requirements. It was a mistake for Canada to even entertain the F35 purchase program.
Billy Bob
April 26, 2025 at 7:34 pm
More American rhetoric.
America is going down the tubes thanks to your moronic dictator.
You get what you vote for. You made your bed. Now rot in it.
Joel R Davidson
April 27, 2025 at 1:57 am
Sounds more like a MAGA propaganda piece than actual assessment of military strategy preparedness. The cancellation of the existing contract could have many alternative solutions that might better address Canadian defense needs. The F35 may very well become insignificant as we’ve seen the battlefield of the future evolving to preclude use of manned AirPower, replaced by advanced systems that are faster, and less vulnerable to antiaircraft systems. The author seems stuck in a legacy form of engagement that has been outdated for a few years now.
Robert Pratt
April 27, 2025 at 5:50 am
Why are you a shill for the horribly expensive F35?
Canada will receive 16 of them now, and the rest? We could buy 100+ Gripens on top of that and still be much more cost effective and also not have the supply constrained by the government of the day in the untrustworthy US which would prioritize its own jets in a JIT system with very little inventory.
The ability to land on almost any hard surface and be resupplied by a couple of trucks by troops with basic technical training also helps – that’s fuel, arming, and basic maintenance and repair – instead of the advanced and highly prepared hardened facilities required by the F35, which also needs 40-50 highly trained people to maintain them.
The blather about not having a kill switch uttered elsewhere is also a blatant lie. If John Deere can remotely disable its tractors that Russia stole from Ukraine, the F35’s always connected to the Lockheed mothership can also be disabled, and it is for this reason Israel ripped out the US avionics and put its own inside.
As far as continental defense goes, the Gripen is more than sufficient as the only danger we face now is from the US. Russia has an impressive arctic capable fleet but little projection power for aircraft aside from some close fly-bys by Russian long range bombers.
Terry Giddens
April 27, 2025 at 11:27 am
As a Canadian, I have to say you sound like a salesman for the F 35. Why would we want to buy anything at a military level, when you threaten to not send us a complete product, and our trust in you is completely broken. This is trumps words ie in case “we are not an ally”. Americans do not understand the level of fear, anger, and self preservation that you have triggered in the whole country. We see you on a dark spiral and don’t want to be attached. Trust is gone for a long, long time, perhaps forever. And many things are permanently broken. It will take a while to untangle ourselves from the US but that is the road us and most of the world are now forced to do. Very sad
Chris P.
April 27, 2025 at 10:18 pm
Canada just needs to defend their airspace not start wars. The F-35 is an expensive, hard to maintain, short range offensive wifi weapon. The Gripen is an affordable well rounded, NATO compatible, easier and cheaper to maintain aircraft. It needs very little maintenance and can be based out of austere runways and roads. Last time I checked Canada is a big country with all kinds of austere environments. The Gripen is well suited to cold weather and has a better load out, more range and any piece of electronic wizardry you can put on an F-35 will work on a Gripen. It may not be the stealthy choice but it’s the right one for Canada.
Benny Jensen
April 28, 2025 at 2:51 am
Could Trumps historicaĺ dreams be the end of the biginning on USA downfall ?
It might be best to exclude them from any defence system.
Marc Landreville
April 28, 2025 at 3:10 am
The F-35 is a lemon and its performance was sacrificed for stealth,the latter subject to obsolescence due to Russian advances in radar technology. The only advantage stealth has is for offensive operations, and how convenient for the US to invite Canada along for its next expeditionary offensive forever war that it will eventually lose.The US is now an unfriendly nation that actively threatens Canada’s sovereignty, something that China never did. When the pressure mounts, the US will simply deny the plane spare parts and maintenance, grounding them, just like they did Venezuela’s F16’s. Finally, every flameout will cost $100 million, as it is single engine. Better the 2 engine Rafale than the F35 or the Gripen. The Rafale has the fewest US parts subject to US embargo, including engines.
Daniel
April 28, 2025 at 8:01 am
Grippen is cheap to purchase and operate, cheap and easy to maintain, rugged, reliable, and it can operate from almost any runway (so it is possible to disperse the planes to secondary bases or even improvised runways like highways). I wouldn’t claim it is an full alternative to F-35, but I strongly believe it would make a wonderful second or backup type.
Paul
April 28, 2025 at 8:05 am
The article overaimplifies F-35 procurement as a matter of either choosing the most advanced platform, or choosing irrelevance. With respect to credibility, what credible nation would procure its most lethal military asset from a country that threatens its sovereignty? Indeed, purchasing the F-35 now would declare that Canada accepts being the Belarus of the West – a nation sovereign only on the map. The author focuses on integrated air campaigns with other F-35 nations. Why, in this political environment, would we assume such a coalition still exists, or that it would be performing missions in defense of western values?
Finally, the author fails to connect F-35 procurement with the broader ‘deal’that must be struck between Canada and the United States: that in exchange for leadership of the free world, a low-barrier free trade regime and a security umbrella, Canada will continue to buy its military hardware from our ally, commit to an economic model predicated on Americans as our best customer, and us theirs, and to scorn strategic partnerships with American adversaries. It’s a good deal for both countries, and America should take it.
Dan
April 28, 2025 at 9:19 am
Sorry to say, but I am seriously thinking skipping this site, so many factual errors and propaganda, not to mention dumbing down articles, like tank vs tank series. This professor of international relations and political theory completely forgets international situation and focuses on technology where he is clearly out of his depth. For instance, Gripen was designed for networking way before it became popular.
RDG
April 28, 2025 at 9:20 am
Simpleton analysis that starts with a desired conclusion and walks its way backwards to justify it.
A short range, overpriced fighter designed for large, integrated deployments and controled by an orange ourang-outan is not what we Canadians need.
The F-35 can’t defend the north if it can’t get there. A cheap plane with a cost effective platform can’t be dismissed.
I’m not qualified to argue between between a Gripen, Rafales or Eurofighter but i am reasonable enough to see an American shill playing the salesman for his home turf.
We dont trust America. Nobody does anymore. Refusing to pay to be put on a leach is an obvious and reasonable action to take.
Graham Eason
April 28, 2025 at 9:40 am
Clearly written by an American who is out of touch on how angry Canadians are with their US neighbours Presidential assault on our sovereign. You are correct that Canada needs to grow up and take our sovereignty seriously, it just doesn’t have to be tied to the US agenda! Friends don’t threaten friends, but that is exactly what your country is doing, so Canada will respond with buy anything but American, and that’s unfortunate, because together we would be stronger!
James
April 28, 2025 at 10:23 am
Trump has hardly mentioned Canada at all in the last couple of months, yet you Canadians keep on taking this thing where it doesn’t have to go. Every other country has come to the table, even China, to talk trade, yet Canada remains completely hostile to the very idea of negotiating with it’s #1 trading partner. Good grief man! Canada has few options to play. Trudeau has brought your country to near economic and military ruin. Your country may not even be a country much longer because of him. He has made your country into a welfare recipient and now that the welfare is being threatened, you blame the one that has paid it for decades. You are rightly angry, but you are angry with the wrong people. Instead of seeing this through clear eyes, you are blinded with rage. That rage should be turned inward. So make up all the silly reasons you can for why the Gripen is the best fighter option, but deep down, you all know the truth and this article stated it very well
Mitch
April 28, 2025 at 10:40 am
Be a serious journalist. The US a d it’s Commander in Chief are threatening to annex Canada. Why should we engage in procuring and strengthening their economy?
The US can no longer be trusted.
Kevin Smith
April 28, 2025 at 10:57 am
You are describing the world of yesterday. The western world is headed to war with MAGA. MAGA is the greatest threat to democracy and to Canada, not China, not Russia. Canada has been left to stand up to MAGA because Americans have failed to do it. Canada is not a nation of cowards. We will not be foolish enough to commit all of our defense procurement from the very nation that is the greatest threat to our sovereignty. The only threat to sovereignty this Canada has ever faced. We will end up with a mixed fleet.
Jim22
April 28, 2025 at 10:58 am
Sounds like an article written to convince Canada to buy American at a time when America needs the business. I strongly suspect Canada could produce a very capable fighter jet, assuming that’s the decision. There are certainly very capable resources available.
John
April 28, 2025 at 11:38 am
The USA is punishing there allies so why should we buy American goods.
Emil Åkesson
April 28, 2025 at 12:00 pm
This article is pure fantasy from Mr. Latham. No mention of the real strategic reason to avoid locking yourself to an unreliable partner like the United States. No real military analysis. Just another love letter to Lockheed Martin disguised as journalism.
The truth is simple. The Gripen is everything Canada actually needs. The F-35 is a ground attack platform, not a fighter. It was built to sneak in and bomb things, not to win air superiority. That job is done by the F-22, which Canada cannot buy and never will.
Gripen and Rafale are real fighters. They can dogfight. They can dominate BVR. They can survive a war of attrition. The Gripen E, using Meteor and IRIS-T, would kill the F-35 before it even knows it is being targeted. Stealth is not some magical invisibility cloak. It only works under very limited conditions, and even then, modern sensors like the Gripen’s IRST will spot you. The F-35 does not even have a proper IRST, because it was never built to win air superiority fights.
And in a real war? The F-35 is dead weight. One sortie a day if you are lucky. Constant maintenance headaches. Grounded half the time. Gripen flies multiple sorties per day, from any highway, with a handful of mechanics. Faster. Longer range. Better sensors. More reliable. Fully networked without Washington holding the keys.
Buying the F-35 is not about defense. It is about politics and dependency. It turns Canada from a partner into a vassal. It is weakness pretending to be strength. If Canada still cares about sovereignty, survivability, and operational freedom, the choice is obvious. It is Gripen or Rafale. Not the overhyped, overbudget striker called the F-35.
Stop parroting Lockheed marketing brochures, Mr. Latham. Start thinking like a country that actually intends to survive the next war.
Kyle Nunya
April 28, 2025 at 12:06 pm
What a childish article
John
April 28, 2025 at 12:23 pm
For a professor, you’re incredibly ignorant, and your article and argument is at a grade 9 level. Cancelling the F35 is an important political message from us to the US. It has to happen. Secondly, the French and Swedes both have better fighter jets, and they’re a fraction of the cost. Thirdly, considering Trump’s economic attack on Canada, I think it is both politically and fiscally prudent to cancel our F35 contract with the US! It is very clear that the time has come for Canada to find newer and more reliable allies.
Garrick Meyers
April 28, 2025 at 12:45 pm
Since your country is no longer acting like an ally, and seems to have aligned itself with the more totalitarian nations, it is at best unwise to trust US military equipment. We need weapons that will work regardless of who we bought them from. Until the US starts acting like a serious nation we should be looking elsewhere for weapons suppliers. A good option would be to take the 15 we are required to under contract then acquire the Gripen for a workhorse. After all, the only country Canada has ever been attacked by is the US. We should then partner with the European consortium working towards a gen 6 aircraft. The capabilities of the F-35 are probably as overblown just like the US PRESIDENT
Marc Glesser
April 28, 2025 at 12:51 pm
The F-35 need the approval of Washington to fly, the software need connection to their server once a month.
The rafale does not. I don’t know why you are not even talking about it.
In a context where the president of the US question canada sovereignty the answer is obvious…buy some jet to the french army.
And then build some factories here in Canada to make the parts and next planes.
Gerald
April 28, 2025 at 1:00 pm
A baloney article written clearly by a Trump supporter who holds a position of non authority at a school whom nobody has heard of. This should have been written for the Enquirer or Fox and Friends which are synonymous with sheep herding.
E. Lafleur
April 28, 2025 at 1:08 pm
Dude, you are so full of it.
Half of you morons put a narcissistic wanna be dictator in the oval office and the very first thing he does is insulting foreign head of states, try to bully Ukraine into giving his pen pal their territory, again insulting yet another head of state on live TV, ripping off trade treaties, imposing tariffs to everyone, threatening the sovereignty of three countries and is in the verge of sending everyone in recession.
And now you are spilling the same crap your fellon in Chief, the Cheeto toddler.
Thing is, the USA are no longer a reliable neighbor, no longer a reliable trade partner, no longer a reliable ally.
That pssy grabber is tanking your economy the same way he bankrupted all of his ventures.
Keep an eye on your 401K, it’s going down faster that Trump airlines.
If you can’t see why we are not interested doing more business with you anymore, there’s nothing to be done but hope the sewage don’t overflow on our side of the border.
D Williams
April 28, 2025 at 2:37 pm
I whole heartedly endorse the Negative articles listed above. Pres Trump decided to kick our nation in the teeth and you expect we aren’t going to react. He fabricates an issue that we have a fentanyl problem when we have only point 1% of the fentanyl of Mexico. Then people illegally crossing the border – there is as many people coming back into Canada illegally as there are ones going into the USA & only a fraction that of Mexico. So then he introduces 25% tariffs. He did this in his first term – referring to some enemies act to introduce tariffs. WOW. For the first time in history – ALL Parties in Canada reacted in condemnation of his act.
Bottom line – you whole article is mute. Trump Screwed Canada – then we will NOT collaborate with you in multi-billion dollar deals. End of Story
Alberto Ayala
April 28, 2025 at 3:16 pm
Rato A
LAC
April 28, 2025 at 3:28 pm
This is so laughable. A report written by an American, to incite anger among the US population, and make Canada look bad. The author sounds like a trumpian. Canada will do what Canada does – and America should shut it’s mouth about it. Perhaps you can train your own soldiers? Perhaps we leave you to figure sh1t out on your own? The fact that more than 60% of the US population is completely clueless about Canada, never mind the rest of the world, speaks volumes about America’s arrogance and superiority complex. Who wants US weapons when Trump threatens to not update them, or to not share intelligence? This author has quite a lot to atone for with this article. It’s not worth time it took to compose it, nor read it.
Danny Webb
April 28, 2025 at 3:32 pm
The article is more of a marketing commercial to justify by lockheed that it is a best fighter . Which may be true as a stealthy aircraft but Canada is now looking at as non reliant on USA for its needs. This last point is critical.
M. Sanders
April 28, 2025 at 3:51 pm
What a world we are now in that there are those who think progress is rearming ourselves as opposed to peace and cooperation.
Mike
April 28, 2025 at 4:00 pm
Dear Pearl-clutching Americans. It is likely Canada canc’s the F-35. A product where certain software control is ultimately held by the US government is a non-starter. I bet Canada buys a European product. Enough of American exceptionalism, we are sick of your bs.
Chris Perry
April 28, 2025 at 4:09 pm
It’s quite amusing reading all the Lockheed sales hype that 1945 keeps pushing on us, the F35 has never been the best choice for Canada. The European fighters are so much more in line with what we as a peaceful nation need to protect ourselves, not be the aggressor, and that’s why the Saab was built and developed.
D-David
April 28, 2025 at 4:27 pm
This article is rife with falsehoods and half-truths. While it may be tempting to dismiss Andrew Latham’s tone-deaf assertions, it’s crucial to address the underlying issues he raises regarding Canada’s defense strategy.
First and foremost, the notion that Canada must rely on the F-35 to maintain its military relevance is misguided. The recent geopolitical landscape has shown us that no nation should willingly place itself in a position of dependency on the United States, especially when it comes to critical defense capabilities. The potential for proprietary software to be remotely disabled or downgraded by a “friendly” nation is a legitimate concern, particularly given the historical context of U.S.-Canada relations.
Historically, the United States has often positioned itself as the “man-in-charge” in North America, a role that Canada has accepted as part of a broader arrangement of shared strength and security. However, this dynamic has frequently resulted in the U.S. wielding greater influence and power within that partnership. A pivotal moment in this trajectory was the decision to cancel the Avro Arrow program, which was influenced by a combination of factors, including a strategic shift toward collaboration with the U.S. in defense matters, economic considerations, and changing military technology. This marked a significant moment in Canadian defense policy, representing a move away from independent aerospace development toward greater reliance on U.S. systems and technologies.
Canada’s defense spending has consistently lagged behind NATO’s recommended benchmarks, which has implications for its ability to protect its borders—from the 49th parallel to the Arctic. This reliance on U.S. military capabilities has, in some ways, allowed Canada to underinvest in its own defense infrastructure, raising questions about sovereignty and the extent to which Canada can assert its interests in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
Moreover, the article overlooks the fact that there are viable alternatives to the F-35. Other fighter jets, such as the Swedish Gripen, offer competitive capabilities without the same level of dependency on U.S. technology. It is essential for Canada to explore a diverse range of options that align with its strategic interests and sovereignty.
Latham’s argument hinges on the idea that abandoning the F-35 would signal a lack of seriousness in defense. However, true seriousness in defense means making informed choices that prioritize national interests over blind allegiance to a single platform or ally. The world is evolving, and so too should Canada’s approach to its defense strategy.
In conclusion, while the F-35 may be a powerful aircraft, it is not the only option available to Canada. The security of the world—and the sovereignty of nations—depends on a balanced approach that does not place excessive faith in any one country, including the United States. Canada must assert its independence and explore all avenues to ensure its national defense, reclaiming agency over its defense policy to effectively protect its borders and interests without undue reliance on any single ally.
Ava Dalcourt
April 28, 2025 at 4:45 pm
Thanks to Donald Trump, the USA is no longer a friend or in alliance with Canada. We should not purchase anything from them that requires their involvment of maintenance of the purchase. Saddly The USA is not to be trusted for anything 😢
Paul Caden
April 28, 2025 at 5:09 pm
Ridiculous article has no sense at all as MAGA tries to starve Canada into becoming a 51st state l. We have no business buying their faulty overpriced f-35. We should be working with Europe making better Jets and drones with them.
Tom Mac
April 28, 2025 at 5:10 pm
As I mentioned earlier the author of this propaganda is an American writing as if he is a concerned Canadian, ridiculing Canada considering an alternative to the f35. Saying if we are serious about our defense we have to buy the f35. Well let’s look at that. I never liked the f35 for Canada as it is the wrong plane. It doesn’t have the range to patrol our Northern borders, it doesn’t have the speed, it’s way overpriced, maintenance is insane and it’s not even the greatest dog fighter by any means. It depends on it’s stealth to be able to kill when it can, which is limited. Well if we’re not on the best of terms with El Presidante Trump the American dictator, then good luck with the maintenance and software upgrades. That would make the f35s basically useless now wouldn’t it. It would be irresponsible for us to buy these and stupid. Trump does what he wants in America. Congress has very little say as all he has to do is declare it as an emergency and write an executive order. Check how many times he has done that just in tariffs alone. WAKE UP!!
On the other hand the Gripen is much faster, a better fighter, with better range, can land on roads if needed for fuel caches or even maintenance and was designed to fight the Russians. Also Canada will be able to assemble them and maintain them in Canada. So no dependence on the US. Trump wants us to purchase the f35 so he can control us and make us rely on the US. Since when does a country buy high tech equipment that depends highly on the country that’s sells it to keep it flying when that country has attacked us economically and has plans to take us over. GET REAL!! So go peddle somewhere else. We need less dependence on the US not more.
Echo Delta
April 28, 2025 at 5:11 pm
Yikes. Should there be a conflict of interest disclosure with this piece?
Michael O'Connor
April 28, 2025 at 5:18 pm
Canadian leaders would have to be deliberately obtuse to buy into the F35 program given the dependency on hardware and software updates and the very real possibility that a kill switch could be embedded in the software. Would you buy destructive tools from a rich neighbor who has stated flatly, on a regular basis,that they are planning to take over your house and home?
Gary Mchale
April 28, 2025 at 5:20 pm
We can debate the yasa & nays all day long this decision will be made by Canadians through there elected representatives . Not like the US a little bit of this and a little bit of that ( no unelected reps for Canucks ). Oh by the way , we both have debt but yours is way out of hand guess you must keep borrowing to keep those F35’s in the air instead of taking care of the Americans that need assistance in there daily lives. Living pay check to pay check if you’ve experienced it you know if not try it.
IAN
April 28, 2025 at 6:21 pm
The whole article is predicated on a world that no longer exists since the US election put Donald Trump in power. The Canadians, like Europe,have now to face the reality that the USA is no longer big brother looking after everyone, but an arrogant bully trying to impose unrealistic demands on its erstwhile allies. Europe is now meeting US demands for increased defense spending, as will Canada, but that money will be spent with countries and companies that can be relied on, not the USA obviously. The decision for Canada to ditch the F35 will not have been primarily made in Canada. It will have, in effect, been made in Washington, when Trump made the USA a hostile nation to pretty much the whole world…except for Russia, somewhat strangely.
Roberts
April 28, 2025 at 6:39 pm
Thanks for spouting trump’s lies – there are several other modern jets that will do the job and cheaper to boot
Me
April 28, 2025 at 7:00 pm
And you expect Canada to cooperate with a nut job country that wants to use military forces to take over Canada as his 51st state? I see the US as a potential enemy of Canada and prefer to see them align with the independent countries in Europe. No dancing with the wolf.
Jabbers99
April 28, 2025 at 7:09 pm
What do you expect when you continue to elect socialists to run your government? Don’t expect competence or accountability.
David Chura
April 28, 2025 at 7:14 pm
This is just a small sample of what the liberal government does
They make promises and throw them out
You cannot trust or count on Liberals especially this Carney who is a JK\OKE from the UK
Where he destroy and ruined their economy
And now he will ruin ours
Mark
April 28, 2025 at 7:48 pm
Your opinion is invalid Andrew. The F-35 is garbage. We should have even bought the first one.
Grant Heazlewood
April 28, 2025 at 7:59 pm
Kia Ora Canada. That is a Maori greeting wishing you the blessing of good health. america and its apparent leader donald have invited all other than the despots of the world to please reject us,the ussa, as friends, allies, neighbours, trade partners etc. That alone is enough to create incredibly damaging backlash from the international community. Now we have a sickophantic (spelling mistake intended) doing what donald and his team have done to Ukraine!!! Blame the victim!! Canada we have your back! I’m a Kiwi, I’m Maori, Many many kiwis feel that we are more like Canadians than any other nationality. Our son moved to Vancouver many years ago. He was greeted with respect and love. He is now a PROUD Canadian. Back in the 70’s the then USA tried to bully kiwis into allowing their nuclear powered ships of war to visit our ports as they had done for years with conventionally powered ships. They threatened and intimidated and hollered and screamed. WE THE PEOPLE stood up and said NO and we have never relented. There has never been one of their ships in our ports since! I have always enjoyed meeting americans I live in the far north of our country where we have big numbers of tourists. They have always been respected and welcome. It was sad to see a campervan with an american flag but also two big hand written signs with the simple words ” we’re so sorry. I would have brought them to my home for kai (a meal) because I’m sorry too. A mongrel is a dog of uncertain heritage and unpredictable behaviour.. We take great care in protecting our whanau,(family) hapu,(tribal groups) and Iwi (the people) from mongrels. The dogs of war were barking and snarling as they sailed up and down our coast looking for weakness. I guess they’re still looking but we are nuclear free and they, the greatest power on the seven seas LOST and left with tails between their legs like a mongrel dog that has been stared down by a brave nation unwilling to be disrespected. Macron led the way not shaking the hand? of a creature of uncertain heritage and unpredictable behaviour. Kia Kaha, Kia toa Kia manawanui. GO CANADA!
Ashlee S Rios
April 28, 2025 at 8:23 pm
Fear and warmongering fluff… nothing more. Projecting power is nothing more than an euphemism for modern colonialism and empirical power sustainability. By the time any country got close enough to launch at creditable attack. Those fighter would and carrier groups would he highly vulnerable and those strike groups would be on a suicide mission! Canada’s current air power is more than sufficient for protecting it air space and internation waters. That is… unless the US plans on engaging Canada directly or plans on leaving them hanging, say, if China or Russia attacks! (Extremely unlikely).
Kamil Devonish
April 28, 2025 at 8:24 pm
Please rewrite this as if you watch the news. It would have a very slim, outside chance of being persuasive.
Did you write this in 2024? The ignorance and condescension is frankly astounding. Sure…Canadians would be idiots to not align ourselves closer to the United States. To buy weapons from a country threatening to take away our freedoms.
This is a time for serious people to have serious discussions. Ignoring the GOP-sized elephant in the room is deeply unserious.
Jaye Campbell
April 28, 2025 at 8:26 pm
If I were participating in the decision to purchase any fighter jets, I would want one that could handle the latest AI drone technology. Also, as a proud Canadian, I would be reluctant to make any major purchase from US corporations while Trump is in office.
Claude Lalonde
April 28, 2025 at 10:09 pm
Let’s be honest.
We would be safer without the U.S.
Your propaganda is what destroyed Canada .
Instead of the Avro Arrow we ended up with a nuclear Bomarc middle that the U.S. was getting rid of.
In some instances we should have joined the USSR. At least we would know who are freindmies are.
John R
April 28, 2025 at 11:53 pm
The F-35 was a costly mistake from its inception. Initially the US military were less than enthusiastic about the project but had to give in to political pressure and tried to make the best of the situation. From the beginning costs were out of control and the program was plagued by failure to achieve its development timelines and performance criteria. To this day, years late the F-35 remains an unreliable and under performing system. Canada was strong armed into joining the program by the US abetted by our top brass who have been joined at the his with the US military. Canada would have little control over the aircraft and would be dependent on Lockheed for exclusive system support. Canada wisely pulled out because of excessive costs and performance criteria failings. Unfortunately this was reconsidered under enormous pressure and 18 aircraft were fully committed with, I believe, a total of 88 on order.
Unfortunately, the F-35, still unreliable, is only suitable for the wealthiest of countries with a massive military. Canada would be completely dependent upon an unreliable and capricious supplier and without the capacity to operate these aircraft independent of the US. Further difficulties arise from the necessity to operate in remote areas under potentially harsh conditions remote from support facilities.
An aircraft with costs, maintainability and effectiveness of a Gripen could be an attractive alternative. The Rafael and Super Hornet may also be worth considering although Canada should be wary of being dependent upon US equipment considering the capricious and unreliable behaviour of the US. The Eurofighter unfortunately, seems to share some of the high costs and poor reliability of the F-35. It may cost something to get out of the F-35 but cheaper as time goes on with a a more efficient system overall.
Matthew Tymon
April 29, 2025 at 2:37 am
I read a lot of your articles now some are pretty good, the research was thorough and it correlated into a and article that was grounded, informative and overall a decent read, not so much on other Ive come across which red like they were great propaganda puff pieces straight out of the Kremlin’s conservative influencers, with misleading or false claims with illogical presumptions and conclusions, and then you come to one’s like this that seems like it was written was written from a Lockheed f-35 sales manager/CEO blasting Canada for even the thought of not buying American made of 35s never mind the fact that it is there right and choice to do so, just because it happens during a Time of political turmoil doesn’t mean that it’s a political move, as an example yes it could be a reaction and decision based off of they change in political ideology in your closest ally, which honestly should be cut and dry for anybody that has even just a little bit of common sense, being at it s manufactured by a us company and thar technology, spare parts, block upgrades, armaments, etc. it becomes very easy to see why it could be a major national security issue making them all but independently capable of protecting themselves from All Nations Ally and adversary, this is not their fault especially when you have a United States president talking about incorporating our closest Ally as the 51st state, the funny part is I would love to because in my opinion Canadians are a little more independent or Democrat some might call it woke liberal I want to have the other stupidly ignorant nicknames Republicans have come up with as they have no other option because their politics and policy speak the opposite of what they preach, who lie I like the best of them on the fly in a moment’s notice instantly twisting The narrative into the liberal mindset or as we hear a lot it’s Joe Biden’s or Harris’s fault, what you never once here is the truth an admission of wrongdoing even once and explanation that is owed to the American people but time and time again is avoided at all costs and because in the age of social media that is your proof, simply type whatever you want pretend it’s from a legitimate source and say at least three times on every public appearance and eventually it’s been repeated and spread enough it becomes legitimate, is there proof to prove otherwise of course they’re always as but that doesn’t matter because in today’s day and age anything can be faked so it’s just fake news, so as much as I think it’s a little naive and excessive for the Canadian people to make this decision I do however stand by it because that is their decision and it baffles me that an online news publication could sound so foolishly ignorant when criticizing it almost feels as if you’re trying to say any derogatory or belittling insult you can to try and make them feel as humiliated as possible the sad thing is instead of recognizing that it is our fault and how we should be going about fixing this for everybodys best interest but instead you decide to start demonizing them instead? Is it really difficult to understand why one could be worried or concerned in any way when the future fleet of what’s supposed to be your next generation stealth combat jets which you’re also going to be relying on for the backbone of your military strength and national security, when every single part of the aircraft it’s maintenance and upkeep is owned by a us company who also happens to be the Ally with in major political turmoil, what’s to stop the new political shift from forcing your cooperation to ensure you don’t get kicked out of the f-35 program and prevented from maintaining or repairing your multi-billion dollar fleet, cuz hey let’s remember this is not just them being concerned and making some shift out of the blue no this is from a extremely unhinged Commander in Chief who is hell bent on exerting the authority of the US president even above All checks and balances knowing full well that they’re is no system in place to actually hold him accountable or to prevent him from carrying out whatever he in the conservative heritage foundation have concocted from the decades thanks to all of the extremely wealthy Republican Representatives turned billionaires culminating in the project 2025 doctrine putting the presidents authority up to a whole new level IT BECOMES MUCH WORSE WHEN THEY ALSO HAVE THE MAJORITY IN BOTH THE HOUSE AND SENATE WHO ALL HAVE HANDED OVER THE REINS TO A SINGLE BRANCH CONTROLLED BY ONE MAN which has never been attempted let alone with absolutely NO CHECKS OR BALANCE ON THE ABUSE OF THAT POWER. EVERY REPUBLICAN IN THIS ERA WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE SPINELESS COWARDS THAT COMMITTED TREASON AGAINST THE AMERICAN PEOPLE AND MAKING A HEFTY 6 FIGURES ANNUALLY WHILE DOING SO. HEY HEGSETH HOWS YOUR BROTHER DOING? YOU DID HIRE HIM AS A DOJ SPECIAL ADVISOR TOOOOO YOURSELF? OR THAT MAKE UP ROOM FOR ALL YOUR FOX NEWS APPEARANCES,GOTTA KEEP SHOVELING THE SHIT AM I RIGHT?
Apj
April 29, 2025 at 6:57 am
As Western readers have long suspected, this news portal is a US centric propaganda tube now 🤮
U.S. Military Retired
April 29, 2025 at 8:05 am
Hey everyone stop the negative rhetoric. It does nothing but harm the bond between Canada and the U.S. The sky is not falling, calm down this is not healthy for either of us. A few off the cuff comments and people go ballistic. The animal in our DNA comes to the surface. If we don’t learn how to control this we’re not going to make it, we’ll become extinct.
As for Canada’s defense weapons stay the course your on don’t start over from scratch, that’s suicide. We need Canada, Canada needs us make no mistake about that. No one is threatening your Sovereignty. This will pass, hang in there please.
Alicia
April 29, 2025 at 8:07 am
Canada Armed Forces, should be efficient, educated and polite.
And the most important issue, it .
should be Lean.
With all these ingredients, plus the natural friendly approach, can walk among wolves and not be aggressively assaulted.
Both sides of the Border Family
April 29, 2025 at 10:28 am
A joke my Canadian brother-in-law sent me many years ago.
The good news:
Canada has decided to help the U.S. in the war on terrorism. They have pledged 2 battleships, 6,000 troops, and 10 fighter jets.
The bad news:
With Canada’s defense cuts that had to be reduced to 2 canoes, a Mountie and a couple of flying squirrels.
I honestly doubt that the current Canadian government would follow through with a purchase from anyone. It will talk about purchasing from someone else, until the order for the F-35 is canceled, then it will not get around to ordering anything different. It would just see it as a way to cut even more military spending to pay for more social programs.
Will Canada follow the example of New Zealand and get rid of all combat aircraft? The issue of not purchasing the F-35 to show sovereignty and independence will in the long run make Canada weaker and more dependent upon others. The cancellation of the order will be much less troublesome for the U.S.
Jkj
April 29, 2025 at 11:24 am
It’ll just make it easier to make them state 51.
Simon Peter
April 29, 2025 at 11:51 am
I think this author forgets that the relationship with the US is or was inherently very deep at a social and economic level before Trump decided to destroy that. There are fundamentals that pre empt choosing a piece of military hardware because of tech or so called interoperability. That fundamental is unity in the face of a larger threat. We had that. We knew where we stood during the cold war. It worked. Trump has decided that no longer matters…and you know what ? To hell with him. He can keep his F 35’s…this is what it is about.
The Grippen is all we need when the shooting starts. It won’t because an over the top arctic war is a long way off if it ever comes. But when it comes we will be ready, and if we aren’t we will adapt.
What it’s also about is standing up to the US once and for all.
It’s about saying ” yeah, we swallowed our future and our pride and let Eisenhower con Diefenbaker into scrapping the Arrow…now you know what it feels like to be burned….Trump.”
Piss off. Canada first.
Edmshna
April 29, 2025 at 1:39 pm
Gripen is perfectly fine as an addition. It has a better flight envelope than F35, nato compatible, variety of pods… It is not for long range attacks, fine for Canada. Of course it is a fraction of the cost, acquisition and maintenance, compared w F35. Much better for Canada. 😀😀
Skip Reid
April 29, 2025 at 1:47 pm
By cancelling the F35 contract Canada is still obliged to purchase 16 F-35s, so why would it be irresponsible to purchase cheaper aircraft from another country or possibly move forward in self sustaining Canadas own aircraft infrastructure for the future.
Ted
April 29, 2025 at 2:01 pm
Pull NORAD back from Canada. Let the Torries deal with Backfire bombers on their own.
Abe Froman
April 29, 2025 at 3:24 pm
Let’s be real. It really doesn’t matter if Canada buys the F35 or not. They will not be a serious player at the Defense table and are forever relegated to the kids table. Regardless of what planes they buy, the moment things get real, they will run to the US and hide behind it for protection. The world knows it, even those screaming the loudest against buying the F35 know it. The thing is the US will still come to their aid if for no other reason than it is in the strategic interest of the US to do so.
Anon
April 29, 2025 at 4:33 pm
This article is just full of misinformation. The Gripen for example is NOT reliant on US weaponry. Rolls-Royce can and are willing to supply engines. The Gripen E is, in the current situation, a better buy. At least *try* to be unbiased when writing articles.
Tom Mac
April 29, 2025 at 6:00 pm
You know what I’ve read quite a few comments from Americans in the comments and elsewhere. Some are good and can understand why Canada is upset and doesn’t trust the US anymore. Others are ridiculously stupid and moronic showing that either you know very little about the issues or that you feel extremely entitled because you are American. Fact is Trump has been lying to justify what he has been doing. He wants to take over Canada for it’s resources. He figures because he is the American president that he is entitled to do that. WE DEFINITELY DO NOT WANT TO BE AMERICAN!! GET OVER IT AND YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO OUR COUNTRY!! This “Might makes right” comes straight out of Putin’s mouth and every other fascist out there. If you don’t understand that then how about Russia taking over the US. How does that feel? Eh?? Think about it because the US is rapidly alienating all of their allies
What are you gonna say when they come for you? Together as allies we are strong but trying to subjugate your allies will leave you all alone. As far as this stupid trade war your president started it. You hit me believe me I’m going to hit back. For some idiotic reason that narcissistic moron figures he can put on a tariff and everyone will just eat it. Why? Because he’s Mr USA!! He can do what he wants. He has been bypassing Congress by abusing a bill to speed things up in a real emergency. Congress has no control because he has been making everything an emergency so he can write an executive order so he can bypass Congress. For the great emergency about tariffs (Really are you kidding me!!!) I’m sorry to tell you America, you have lost you democratic process. If you don’t reign in your president you will become the next fascist state. He’s only been in for a few months, it will get worse.
So my question to you is why should we trust the US to sell us planes and not screw us over later with those same aircraft. The reason we were buying them really had more to do with our friendly relationship with the US. The f35 is over priced full of potential issues and not the right plane for our Northern borders. To slow and range isn’t good enough. And then there is the fact that if you want you can shut off our access to crucial updates and maintenance. It would make us have to roll over to whatever your president wants. So get lost.
Some people think Trump is only kidding about annexing Canada. Are you serious??? What ruler of any country (and I do mean ruler) talks of annexing and moving our borders while insulting them?
Let’s look at just some of the lies Trump has been making. First that Canada has been smuggling all this fentanyl which has been proved to be an unbelievable exaggeration. Don’t fool yourselves, crap has been smuggled out of the US as well. Next that Canada has been cheating the US on free trade. Get real the US has been doing that to Canada for years eg. soft wood lumber where the US put on extra illegal tariffs. Canada would take them to court and win but the money still stayed in the US. It didn’t change anything. Then Trump in his first term revamped the free trade agreement and said it was the best out there. Now he says that the trade agreement favors Canada. Get real!! Just because Trump says something doesn’t mean it’s true. Especially if it comes from him. The man is corrupt.
Check your facts people
Tony C
April 29, 2025 at 6:16 pm
Andrew Latham seems to have a one track mind, a MAGA-mind. Lets not forget about Japan! The Swedish Gripen while not a bad option, is not the only fighter jet, there are many. Don’t forget about Japan’s 5th/6th generation fighter jet. And as I understand it, Canada is talking to Japan about purchasing their very impressive fighter jets, too. I would not want to rely on the United States parts and software upgrades, I do not, nor would I ever, trust Trump for one second! Yes, Canada is 100% a sovereign country and can make their own decisions… (Mainly because of Trump in office) The F-35 is not the only way to becoming a strong defensive country… Australia and Canada are about to join Britain & Italy to look into Japan’s YF-23. Yes, the project that the US turned down for the F-35, then gave the blue prints to Japan. Again, the YF-23 is no joke! It along with the F-22, & the F-35 have air superiority abilities!!!!
What a joke of a Canadian hit piece by Andrew Latham!
H. Capps
April 29, 2025 at 9:34 pm
Was this article written for political reasons or for defense reasons? Trump started this fiasco, and Latham is trying to deflect the blame to Canada. Canadians don’t need a biased Defense journalist telling them why they’re wrong. Latham’s article would have been much more effective if he had started with a) the tariff issue and b) Trump’s statements about making Canada a U.S. state…. and only after acknowledging that those topics understandably triggered Canada’s position should the author then make a case based on the technical merits of the F-35.
Eye Silent
April 29, 2025 at 9:49 pm
Canada needs to be independent from the US in all aspects. The writer wants Canada to remain connected (follower) to the US and that is no go (yesterday’s election is clear).
Mike
April 30, 2025 at 1:03 am
Trade 38 of the 88 F-35s for a total of 50 F-35s and 57 F-15EXs. Creating that crazy capable stealth lead with long range weapon tank sitting back and unloading on whatever it faces.
The F-15EX is a modern era F-15 with fly-by-wire maneuverability, huge speed up to Mach 3.0 and beyond. 10 exterior weapon hard points, and a proven airframe over decades. Keep good with the United States, and get what we use. Be super capable, and ready for what’s to come. Make the trade that is best for Canada and staying strong into the future.
DissGust
April 30, 2025 at 2:08 am
Amazing to read the criticism of this article and the comments. Just go with the FACTS and accept the reality of the situation. Canada NEEDS to upgrade its military and spend the money it should have been all along. Don’t buy the F-35 if you feel like you can’t trust the U.S., But finally buy SOMETHING!! One U.S. Carrier has as many Jets as the entire Canadian Air Force! The U.S. has various Jets for various purposes, not just the F-35. Having just one is foolish! Canada should be buying others regardless. The Gripen is not an upgrade or comparable but better than what Canada has so go for it! The Japanese YF-23 might be an alternative. Just remember the U.S. has almost as many troops in Japan as Canada has in its entire armed forces. They too rely on the U.S. for their security. Same goes for South Korea where the U.S. military also has soldiers. While a strong military is not everything, it is important to be able to defend and protect what you do have. NATO members have not spent their fair share for decades. Now suddenly with Russia’s aggression and Trump calling countries out it is a wake up call. Who’s fault is it that countries didn’t invest in their own protection? Nobody stopped you! Europe is fearful of Russia. Do Canadian’s actually believe that Europe would or could help it defend an attack? The U.S. spent $967 Billion on it’s military last year – 2024 (46% of Canada’s GDP) Canada spent $30.5 Billion (1.37% of Canada’s GDP). From the year 2000 to 2022 Canada spent $407 Billion TOTAL! At least own the situation you are in. Do a military capability comparison between the U.S. and Canada and stop the rhetoric. The Global Firepower Index (2025) ranks Canada 28th out of 145 countries. This ranking places it slightly BEHIND Argentina and Algeria. I have no issues with Canada, but some of the comments by Carney and on these boards are just delusional. A trade war is one thing, a real one wouldn’t be fair. Anyone saying otherwise needs to do some research.
Brent Lee Boyd
April 30, 2025 at 4:37 am
The F35 is obsolete. Recently, Israel flew the F35s to Iran to bomb the air defences. The Iranian’s S400 or maybe S500 anti air missle system lit them up before they reached Baghdad. They launched and ran back asking “What the frag was that?” So it can’t run, can’t hide and can’t fight. So blast off with this 🍋.
Jan vanbaelenberghe
April 30, 2025 at 9:20 am
Didn’t bother to read the full article. Trumpian B.S. some People are so good at beleving their own nonsense …
Ox
April 30, 2025 at 9:59 am
This is nothing more than revenge for Trump’s tariffs.
Cal Lawrence
April 30, 2025 at 10:16 am
Is this site sponsored by Lockheed Martin? Because every article about the F-35 reads like a press release.
And no, China is not moving into the North Pacific. They’re fantasizing about moving into the North Pacific. What China WISHES they could do and what they can ACTUALLY do are very different things.
Joei Kastanza
April 30, 2025 at 12:31 pm
It’s funny reading this one-sided artical based on somehow being personally offended. The F-35 is a great fighter jet but it’s too integrated into the US defense. The American military is and would be a great ally but it’s not the military that is undependable it’s Trump and his DEI hires. Anyone trying to defend the baffoon squad is also not very dependable.
As for the JAS39 Gripen F/E it’s been updated with technology that even the F-35 doesn’t have, it can navigate without satellite and all the other things in the comments.
D A
April 30, 2025 at 1:05 pm
You can’t blame Canada for wanting to cancel this order. America can just shut off any F 35 that it has sold to any country. Who would wanna buy a plane for that much money that can just be shut off remotely?
Robert stevenson
April 30, 2025 at 3:55 pm
The guy writing this mess smells of maga trash.Canada like many other nations are bailing on us because the fool/felon/rapist/Pedophile in chief wack job leader that millions of rubes put in charge has turned his back on our allies for a reach around from putin.Trump has made it clear that america is an untrustworthy partner because american politicians mostly the Republicans are beyond corrupt and will sell out anyone for a dollar and power.It may hurt like hell but my advice to the rest of the world is tell america to kick rocks because under trump and weak minded politicians america has lost her way and must fall.We are hypocrites that preach for civil and human rights for other nations but violate them on a daily basis.We are supporting isreals genocide of Palestinians,we are bombing innocent people whos only so called offense to america is standing up for people how cant defend themselves.What is the point of our constitution and the creation of america if were just going to turn into everything we said america was against.
Nope nope
April 30, 2025 at 9:50 pm
Yes…. let’s buy planes from a country that threatened to throttle their effectiveness in battle is they didn’t like what we did.🙄
Troy Deveau
May 1, 2025 at 9:02 am
If I had the power, I would outright abandon a fighter that is potentially a liability in battle. The US insists on doing all upgrades on these machines. If they become an adversary, what is to stop them from sabotaging said machines. Let’s develop our own fighters. In the mean time get something in the air that can compete in every other fashion outside of stealth. We are capable of such ingenuity…we just haven’t had to use it.
Rando
May 2, 2025 at 2:15 am
Buy 6 f47’s and call it a day. This next war will not be decided on any air superiority. When China moves into Canada and takes over goodbye Mr Trump!
We don’t need you.