Canada’s F-35 spare parts to remain U.S.-owned until installed, raising questions over sovereignty and long-term military independence.
Canada’s acquisition of F-35 fighter jets has triggered renewed concerns over national sovereignty and defence autonomy. The reason: the spare parts for these multi-million-dollar jets will remain property of the U.S. until they’re physically installed on Canadian aircraft.
This arrangement—outlined in a 2023 U.S. Government Accountability Office report—has stirred anxiety among defence experts amid geopolitical uncertainty and shifting U.S. foreign policy stances.
An Uncertain Ally and a Risky Agreement
Experts like Stephen Saideman of Carleton University warn that what was once touted as a 40-year dependable supply chain may now be vulnerable to political whims. “That reliability is much less certain,” Saideman told CTVNews.ca, citing previous actions by the U.S., including trade tensions and threats to allied cooperation.
Former RCAF commander Yvan Blondin echoed this, pointing out that the U.S. controls nearly all aspects of the F-35 system—software, upgrades, parts, and armament. “Without U.S. consent, no country can hope to operate the F-35 for long,” he wrote on social media.
First Jets Expected in 2026, But Sovereignty Still in Question
Canada has committed to purchasing 16 F-35s at nearly US$85 million each, with initial deliveries expected in 2026 to bases in Cold Lake, Alberta, and Bagotville, Quebec. These jets are set to replace the aging CF-18 fleet, in service since 1982.
However, while parts are shared among F-35 operating nations, they remain Pentagon property until installed. This shared but U.S.-controlled logistics system raises questions about whether Canada truly “owns” its defence capabilities.
International Fallout: Denmark’s F-35 Controversy
Denmark recently faced criticism after the U.S. transferred F-35 parts from a Danish base to Israel—without Danish oversight. The move sparked outrage, especially amid reports of F-35 use in the Gaza conflict.
Danish MP Rasmus Jarlov warned of potential U.S. coercion, stating, “The U.S.A. can certainly disable the planes by simply stopping the supply of spare parts.” His comments have added fuel to global apprehensions about American control over allied military assets.
Calls for Diversification in Canada’s Fighter Fleet
Blondin, who once supported the F-35 acquisition, now advocates for a diversified air fleet. In a recent LinkedIn post, he suggested exploring aircraft options from European allies like France and Sweden.
“There are better trusted alternatives, especially in the coming years,” Blondin wrote. “Building Canada’s future fighter force solely on the F-35 today, hoping for the best, would be irresponsible.”
Despite Concerns, Defence Experts Cite Limited Alternatives
Not all experts support shifting course. Saideman argues that the cost and time involved in pursuing alternative aircraft make the F-35 the most viable option—at least for now.
Rob Huebert of the University of Calgary agrees, highlighting growing threats from Russia and China. “Only this aircraft has the system capability to meet the threat,” he said. “Trump will pass in three years. The air threat… will not.”
National Defence Remains Committed to the F-35 Program
In response to growing public scrutiny, Canada’s Department of National Defence affirmed its commitment to the F-35 fleet.
“Canada will own all parts installed on its aircraft,” a department spokesperson stated. “We retain full control related to the operation, airworthiness, and safety of flight.”
Still, with parts ownership hinging on U.S. discretion until installation, questions about long-term independence remain on the radar.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for more insights on Canada’s defence and sovereignty.
