Title: Canada Continues F-35 Program Amid Cost Concerns

Canada is moving forward with the F-35 fighter jet program, according to a senior official from the Department of National Defence. Deputy Defence Minister Stefani Beck addressed a House of Commons committee, stating that the government is proceeding "full steam ahead" until further notice. This statement comes as the committee reviews a recent auditor general's report highlighting the rising costs associated with acquiring the stealth jets.

Prime Minister Mark Carney initiated a review of the $27.7 billion deal with Lockheed Martin shortly after taking office last spring. He indicated that a decision on whether to purchase the full complement of 88 F-35s or to consider a more limited acquisition would be made by late summer. However, no announcement has been made yet.

Beck emphasized the current directive, saying, "What we have as direction is to continue with the contract… with the arrangements that we have in place until we hear otherwise." She added that the focus remains on preparing the necessary infrastructure, training pilots, and ensuring readiness for the arrival of the F-35s.

Canada has committed to acquiring at least 16 F-35s, with four already paid for and deposits made on eight additional jets. The first deliveries are expected next year, with training for pilots and technicians set to occur at a U.S. air force base.

During the committee meeting, Beck reiterated that the decision ultimately lies with the government. "We are public servants," she stated. "We offer the facts and the decisions are made and we take guidance from our elected leaders."

Members of the Conservative Party on the committee expressed strong support for the F-35 program and urged swift progress. Lt.-Gen. Jamie Speiser-Blanchet, the new commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, faced questions regarding the potential for a mixed fleet of fighter jets. She acknowledged that the air force would need to manage two fleets during the transition, as the current CF-18s are expected to remain operational until the early 2030s.

Speiser-Blanchet noted that operating two different fleets would increase costs and complexity. "It would duplicate a certain amount of infrastructure and training," she explained. She also highlighted the urgency of transitioning to the F-35, citing the advanced capabilities of adversaries like China and Russia, which operate fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

Officials defended the nearly 50 percent increase in the program's cost, which has risen from $19 billion in 2019 to $27.7 billion in 2025. They attributed part of the increase to changes mandated by the U.S. program, including delays in constructing new hangars and secure facilities at Canadian air force bases. Additionally, fluctuations in the U.S. dollar exchange rate can significantly impact costs, with each cent change affecting the program by $250 million.

The timeline for a decision from the Prime Minister remains unclear, causing frustration for U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra. He has criticized the idea of maintaining a mixed fleet, arguing that it would hinder Canada's interoperability within NORAD's defense framework. In a separate interview, retired Canadian air force major-general Duff Sullivan countered these claims, stating that interoperability relies more on tactics and procedures than on the specific types of aircraft used.

As Canada continues its review of the F-35 program, the implications of its decisions will be closely watched by both domestic and international stakeholders.