Saab Gripen

Canada Quietly Advances F-35 Fighter Jet Payments Amid Public Debate on Purchase

Canada's fighter jet debate has increasingly been framed as a dramatic political decision: should Ottawa proceed with its planned purchase of F-35 stealth fighters or pivot toward alternatives such as Saab's Gripen? Public discussions have focused on cost overruns, industrial benefits, trade tensions with Washington, and broader questions surrounding Canada's long-term defense dependence on the United States . To many observers, the issue still appears unresolved, with government leaders publicly emphasizing that reviews are ongoing and that options remain available.