Canada is looking for alternatives to American F-35 fighters for fear of Trump’s policy

A network reported CBC That the Canadian authorities are looking for alternatives to fighters F-35 American under President Donald Trump’s foreign policy.

The channel, quoting Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair, stated: “These fighters were considered by the Canadian Air Force a necessary platform, but we are also studying other alternatives, we are wondering whether we needed that all our fighters be of a model. F-35.

Blair added: “The Prime Minister asked me to verify this issue and hold consultations with other sources, especially those that can provide the possibilities of collecting fighters, Canada’s income.”

She indicated CBC Until the Canadian authorities are discussing with the armed forces the best options that serve national interests and Canadian defense policy, and also pointed out that there are calls by Canadians for their government to cancel the contract of purchase of American fighters F-35Which is $ 19 billion, and Canada has already paid the price of 16 fighters, and is expected to be delivered by the beginning of 2026.

Blair explained that Canada may accept these fighters, but it may later depend on fighters of European suppliers, such as the Swedish fighters Saab GripenWhere it was considered to be assembled and maintained in Canada, unlike the American fighters that are maintained in the United States.

The channel pointed out that it is still not clear what cost Canada will bear if it decides to cancel the contract of US fighters..

Blair had stated in August 2024 that Canada would arm fighters F-35 New, periodic aircraft and warfare, indicating that it will constitute a platform for joint cooperation with Australia.

It is noteworthy that Trump described former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who resigned from his position, as “the Great Governor of Canada”, and Trump also indicated that Canada could have avoided the customs duties imposed by Washington and obtain military protection if it joined the United States as a state No. 51.