Tag: F-35
Security, Trade and the Economy

Caught between Allies and Autonomy: What the F-35 vs Gripen Dilemma means for Canada’s Defence and Security

Canada’s decision to replace its aging CF-18 fleet has taken on new geopolitical weight. Initially committed to procuring 88 F-35s, Ottawa began reconsidering further orders in 2025 amid deteriorating US-Canada relations, turning its attention to Sweden’s Gripen as an alternative. This article evaluates the two programs across four dimensions: homeland defence, alliance interoperability, industrial sovereignty, and combat performance. It finds that while the F-35 offers superior stealth and NATO integration, the Gripen presents compelling advantages in Arctic operability, cost efficiency, and supply chain independence. Ultimately, the right choice depends on whether Canada prioritizes allied commitments or long-term defence autonomy.

Canadian Armed Forces

What’s the Deal with the F-35?

Canada’s relationship with the F-35 Lightning II Joint-Strike Fighter is a long and complicated one. In this article, Justin Dell provides an overview of this chapter in the history of Canadian military procurement, underscores some of the implications of Canada’s actions towards this weapons program, and argues that the Canadian government has made the wrong decision in turning its back on the aircraft.