Canada to review F-35 fighter deal amid trade tensions with US

March 17, 2025 / 2:26 AM

Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney

Sharjah 24 – KUNA: Prime Minister Mark Carney announced late Saturday that Canada will review the F-35 fighter jet deal signed with the United States due to ongoing trade tensions between the two countries.

Minister Bill Blair tasked with reviewing the deal

Defense Ministry press secretary Laurent de Casanove stated that Carney had instructed Minister Bill Blair to assess whether the F-35 deal with the US is in Canada's best interest. Blair will explore all viable options while consulting with the army's Chief of Staff, Ministry of Defense, and the air force.

Details of the F-35 purchase agreement

Canada previously agreed to purchase 88 F-35 fighter jets from the US at a cost of USD 85 million each. The contract included a mandatory purchase of 16 jets, while the remaining part of the deal was non-binding.

Replacement of aging CF-18 jets

The F-35 jets are intended to replace Canada's aging McDonnell Douglas CF-18 fleet. According to the deal, the first of the 88 fighter jets is scheduled for delivery in 2026, with the final 18 jets expected to be delivered by 2032.