Canada to procure 88 F-35A multirole stealth fighter jets

Americas, News January 13, 2023 , by IRIA No Comments

Canada will receive 88 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets from U.S. defense manufacturer Lockheed Martin as a result of the Future Fighter Capability Project competition, the Canadian government announced.

According to the statement, The Royal Canadian Air Force will procure 88 units of F-35A multirole stealth aircraft, a sustainment solution tailored to Canada’s requirements, and a comprehensive training program.

F-35 Joint Program Office program executive officer U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Mike Schmidt said, “Canada is our friend and a close ally. Their decision to procure almost 90 jets underscores the value of the incredible F-35 Lightning II.”

“The F-35 is the best in the world, providing unmatched interoperability to America, Canada, and the additional 15 nations that have selected the fighter. It is a global game-changer. Through power projection, the F-35 is at the tip of the spear for deterrence. Its forward presence will continue to ensure that potential adversaries choose diplomacy over armed conflict,” Schmidt added.

Lockheed Martin’s vice president and general manager of the F-35 program, Bridget Lauderdale said that “We are honored the Government of Canada has selected the F-35, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian defense industry to deliver and sustain the aircraft.”

Lauderdale stressed that “The selection of F-35 strengthens allied airpower in Canada, North America, and around the world.”

The Lockheed Martin statement highlighted that the 5th generation aircraft reinforces Canada’s operational capacity with its allies and provides interoperability with NORAD and NATO members. The F-35 fighter jets give pilots an advantage against enemies and enable them to conduct their mission more effectively.

*^{F-35A Demo Team during the 2021 Canadian International Air Show in Toronto, Canada on September 4, 2021. (Image Credit: U.S. Air Force/Staff Sgt. Thomas Barley)}*

Lockheed Martin Canada chief executive Lorraine Ben highlighted that “The F-35 program yields tremendous economic benefits for Canada’s aerospace and defence industry, and we look forward to continued growth.”

“Together with our Canadian industry partners, we are honored by this selection and the sustainment of critical jobs that will continue to equip Canadian workforces with advanced skills,” Lorraine Ben added.

The F-35 aircraft is being operated from 27 worldwide bases and nine countries are operating the multirole fighter jet on their home soil. At present, there are about 900 F-35 aircraft in service.