Overview
- Prime Minister Mark Carney declined to say when the government will close its review of the planned F-35 buy.
- The NORAD commander told U.S. lawmakers that fifth-generation fighters are not required for North American air defense, weakening a core public case for the F-35.
- Even as the review continues, Ottawa has paid for long-lead parts tied to 14 more jets beyond the first 16 to hold its production slot.
- Department plans to integrate the fleet are moving ahead, with the first aircraft from the initial order slated to enter training in the United States later this year.
- Saab is promoting its Gripen as an alternative with faster delivery and larger Canadian job counts than the F-35, a pitch that taps domestic industry and trade concerns.