Think F-35 fighter jets are all-American? Canada actually plays a major role in production

The F-35 fighter jet is one of the most hotly debated purchases in recent Canadian history. These U.S.-made planes come with a hefty price tag and are politically charged.

Rising trade tensions with the U.S., along with questions about Canada’s sovereignty, initiated a review of the purchase in the spring. But for the time being , Canada has contractually committed to buying 16 F-35s, with the option to purchase up to 88 of the fifth-generation stealth fighter jets.

“The F-35 is the most capable, it's the most survivable, and it's the most lethal [fighter jet],” said Chauncey McIntosh, vice-president and general manager at Lockheed Martin, which runs the F-35 program.

Buying the full complement of F-35s would be the largest investment in the Royal Canadian Air Force in more than 30