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On May 27, 2024, the Canadian government confirmed the acquisition of 16 new F-35 fighter jets, which will be financed through the current federal budget, as announced by Defense Minister Bill Blair during his appearance before a House of Commons committee. Although the delivery of the aircraft is not expected until 2026 due to production delays, this move marks a significant step in the modernization of the Canadian Armed Forces.
In his testimony, Minister Blair defended the Liberal government’s military spending plans, which also include funding for new C-330 Husky transport and refueling aircraft, as well as P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance planes. These acquisitions are part of a broader effort to strengthen Canada’s defense capabilities.
However, challenges remain, particularly regarding the production delays of the F-35. A senior U.S. military official last year warned that the delivery of stealth fighters ordered by Canada and other allies might be delayed due to ongoing technical issues with the aircraft. In December, U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Schmidt informed American lawmakers that the latest version of the aircraft, known as Block 4, was facing significant development challenges.
The Pentagon’s F-35 project office echoed Schmidt’s warning last month, noting that Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, would only be able to deliver between 75 and 110 F-35s in 2024, instead of the 156 originally planned. Despite these hurdles, Canada’s Department of Defense still targets 2026 as the expected arrival year for the Canadian jets.
The F-35 Lightning II, developed by Lockheed Martin, is one of the most advanced multirole combat aircraft globally. It was designed to perform ground attack, reconnaissance, and air defense missions with stealth capabilities. The F-35 entered service with the U.S. Marine Corps in July 2015, followed by the U.S. Air Force in August 2016, and the U.S. Navy in February 2019. It features a sophisticated sensor package, fully integrated avionics, and superior stealth capabilities, enabling it to operate effectively in high-threat environments. The aircraft is powered by a Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, capable of achieving supersonic speeds, and comes equipped with a comprehensive array of weaponry.
Concurrently, concerns have been raised about a shortage of qualified fighter pilots. Deputy Commander of the Armed Forces, Lt. Gen. Frances Allen, admitted to lawmakers that there are currently fewer fighter pilots available than needed to fulfill both NATO and NORAD missions and to train for the transition to the new F-35s. In 2023, Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Eric Kenny reported a shortfall of nearly 2,000 full-time members and 500 reservists.
A study funded by the Department of Defense and obtained by CBC News revealed that the country’s fighter force was “in crisis.” The report by the Royal United Services Institute, a British think-tank, also cautioned about a shortage of experienced pilots necessary for an effective transition to the F-35.
In this context, the Canadian government faces a dual challenge: ensuring the successful delivery and integration of the F-35s while maintaining significant combat capabilities with the remaining two CF-18 HEP II squadrons until 2032