Canada to Order 88 F-35 Jets for $19B

The Government of Canada is procuring 88 5th Generation F-35 Lightning II aircraft as a result of the long-delayed Future Fighter Capability Project competition.

“Canada is confident that the F-35 represents the best fighter jet for our country at the best price for Canadians. During the finalization phase of the procurement process, the US government and Lockheed Martin with Pratt & Whitney successfully demonstrated that an agreement to purchase the F-35 fighter jets meets Canada’s requirements and outcomes, including value for money, flexibility, protection against risks, performance and delivery assurances,” the government said in a statement.

On January 9, Canada finalized an agreement with the U.S. government and Lockheed Martin with Pratt & Whitney for the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

The F-35 beat out Boeing’s Super Hornet and Saab’s Gripen for the order.

The first deliveries of these aircraft are anticipated to begin in 2026, and will reach Full Operational Capability with Canada’s fleet between 2032 and 2034. These new jets will replace the Air Force’s old CF-18s.

This is the largest investment in the RCAF in the past 30 years. The estimated investment for this project is $19 billion, which includes associated equipment, sustainment set-up and services, as well as the construction of Fighter Squadron Facilities in Bagotville and Cold Lake.