Summary
Canada is reconsidering its F-35 fighter jet purchase amid rising tensions with the Trump administration.
Defence Minister Bill Blair stated Canada is exploring alternatives to the $19-billion contract for 88 jets, suggesting Canada might accept the first 16 already paid for while sourcing remaining aircraft from European suppliers like Saab.
This follows Trump’s tariff threats and comments about “annexing Canada by economic force.”
The Swedish-built Saab Gripen, which finished second in the competition, offers assembly in Canada, thus avoiding dependence on U.S.-based maintenance.
My understanding is that that plane needs to “call home” daily or it won’t work.
I couldn’t find the article, but found a more recent one that basically agrees with you, except on the whole replacement of the computer systems. That plane took so long to complete and had so many problems, im betting it’s easier to design a new plane rather than reverse engineer this one but that’s neither here nor there.
I think the largest issue is the over-dependence on the US military across the board which as you mentioned, we see playing out in the Ukraine already.
Do you think the EU has what it takes to rebuild fast enough to stand up for themselves alone?
I hope so. I’m not informed enough to know.