Prime Minister Mark Carney reaffirmed on Tuesday at a press conference in Halifax that his government would examine ways to adjust the planned purchase of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets if the Liberals win the upcoming general election on April 28.
The announcement comes after Carney ordered a review of the $19-billion contract with the American aerospace company last week, citing concerns over Canada’s reliance on the United States for security.
“We have alternatives to the F-35, so we will explore those, as the ministers of defence and procurement will explore how the F-35 program could be adjusted, including greater investment here in Canada, greater production here in Canada,” Carney said at a press conference in Halifax.
The Prime Minister did not provide further details, but the potential shift in procurement strategy has drawn criticism, particularly from Cold Lake Mayor Craig Copeland, who expressed disappointment over the review.
‘Extremely disappointing’ decision
“It’s extremely disappointing,” Copeland stated, arguing that Canada had already undergone a rigorous selection process before committing to the F-35 program. “It’s sort of a step back, take the tariffs and the President of the United States out of the picture. Canada had an extremely well-vetted process for the replacement of the F-18. And so, you know, they just didn’t overnight decide the F-35.”
Copeland stated that Royal Canadian Air Force experts thoroughly evaluated the aircraft options, confirming that one manufacturer even met with city officials to discuss their plans if awarded the bid.
The mayor also pointed out the overwhelming support for the F-35 within military circles. “In the end, every pilot that I talk to wants to fly the F-35. It’s the top-of-the-line aircraft, the airframe out there, and why should politics get involved in what is best for our armed forces to protect our country? I just think it’s really a shame that Carney is going to put cold water on the military once again.”
Concerns over military readiness and infrastructure investment
Copeland showed frustration with what he perceives as a pattern of underinvestment in Canada’s military. “I mean, the way we treat our military in Canada, it’s awful. Let’s get the men and women the best piece of equipment so that they can protect themselves but also protect our country.”
The mayor added ongoing commitments to Cold Lake and Bagotville as they prepare for the F-35s, noting that construction is already underway on large hangars at both bases, with EllisDon securing the contract.
Potential operational challenges
Copeland warned that altering the F-35 procurement plan could create logistical challenges for the military. “If we take only complete, let’s just say, 16 planes, and then we look at another airframe, you know, it’s a no. Now you have to support two airframes in the Canadian military, which is, it’s very odd.”
Copeland emphasized that any review of the aircraft procurement should be driven by input from military personnel, not political factors. He noted that most members of 4 Wing support having a single dedicated fighter jet, paired with a lead-in trainer to help prepare pilots for the transition to the main aircraft.
Tying procurement to U.S. trade disputes a ‘big mistake’
The mayor also pushed back against linking the F-35 procurement to trade tensions with the United States. “Right now, to tie the 35 into the tariff war right now is a big mistake in my opinion. I’m hoping that it’s not causing uncertainty in the Defence department, the staff that are getting all the work done.”
He reiterated concerns about political interference in military decisions. “So, we just got to stay in our lane here as a politician, and this is not an area that we should be getting involved with politics when it comes to defence.”
Call for leadership in military investment
Copeland called for decisive action, urging policymakers to respect the chosen aircraft selection and prioritize the needs of Canada's armed forces over political concerns. He emphasized the importance of providing the best equipment for military personnel, regardless of political considerations.
