Canada is contemplating the replacement of certain segments of its fleet with fighter jets sourced from European manufacturers. The Saab Gripen, having previously secured the runner-up position in a past procurement, is now being recognised as a formidable contender.
On Friday, it was reported that Portugal is abandoning the option to purchase the American F-35 fighter jet, citing uncertainty regarding US policy towards NATO. Among the options under consideration is Sweden’s Saab Gripen, as reported by The Aviationist, which highlights that numerous European nations are reevaluating their defence procurement strategies.
Canada is currently exploring the option of substituting portions of its intended F-35 fleet with fighter jets sourced from European manufacturers, with the Saab Gripen emerging as a potential contender. The announcement came from Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair, who has been assigned by Prime Minister Mark Carney to assess a range of potential solutions, as reported by the Canadian CBC.
The Saab Gripen secured the runner-up position in Canada’s earlier procurement process, presenting an enticing proposal that includes final assembly within the nation and a transfer of intellectual property rights. This arrangement would afford Canada enhanced oversight regarding maintenance and upgrades.
The review in Canada, much like that in Portugal, unfolds amid escalating trade tensions, as the Trump administration has enacted tariffs and issued threats of economic sanctions towards its neighbour.
Concurrently, there is an increasing political impetus to lessen reliance on American arms systems. Nevertheless, any alteration to the nation’s F-35 contract could prove to be quite expensive, as the arrangement presumably entails penalties should a cancellation occur.
A diverse fleet of mixed fighters featuring two distinct aircraft types has, until now, been deemed unfeasible due to financial considerations. The solution, among other considerations, necessitates distinct training programs, dedicated hangars, and tailored maintenance systems. At this juncture, the matter has acquired a fresh significance.
The American defence firm Lockheed Martin, producer of the F-35, has minimised the importance of Portugal’s potential exit from the programme while also highlighting its enduring partnership with Canada.
Moreover, the company has refuted claims suggesting that the US might restrict the capabilities of the F-35 aircraft via a so-called “kill switch,” and has guaranteed that all clients will retain complete access to the system’s infrastructure.
Simultaneously, defence analysts contend that the actions taken by the Trump administration have undermined confidence in American defence policy, thereby prompting Canada to seek more diversified security solutions.
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