Canada Weighs Gripen Fighter Production at Home Against F-35 Purchases from Lockheed Martin
Canada's fighter aircraft procurement review has escalated into a broader industrial strategy, potentially involving 140 aircraft and a C$500 billion defense investment plan. The decision will have significant implications for domestic manufacturing capabilities and defense sovereignty.
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Canada's review of its F-35 procurement has evolved into a strategy considering a fleet expansion to 140 aircraft, including Saab Gripen fighters assembled domestically. The government is evaluating offers from Saab, Lockheed Martin, and Bombardier, with Saab proposing to build Gripen and GlobalEye aircraft in Canada, promising substantial job creation and full technology transfer.
Meanwhile, Lockheed Martin emphasizes the industrial benefits of the F-35, estimating over C$15.5 billion in industrial value for Canada. The decision could affect the direction of Canadian defense spending and job creation in the sector, balancing between domestic production and reliance on foreign suppliers. However, interoperability issues between the Gripen and F-35 may complicate operational integration.
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