The Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has announced a radical change in its fighter fleet modernization plans. The order for 88 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets has been canceled, and instead they will be purchased:
- 32 F-35 (Lockheed Martin),
- 16 JAS 39 Gripen (Saab),
- 12 Eurofighter Typhoon (Airbus),
- 12 Dassault Rafale (Dassault Aviation),
- 12 Q400 (Bombardier Defense) .
All aircraft will be assembled at the former Ford Windstar plant in Oakville under license, which will create jobs and strengthen cooperation with European defense companies.
The decision is related to the desire to reduce dependence on the United States against the background of the Trump administration's foreign policy course, as well as the technical and financial risks identified during negotiations with Lockheed Martin. Earlier, Bombardier expressed concern about the possible cancellation of the F-35, offering its platforms for the project.
The inclusion of **Eurofighter Typhoon** and Rafale reflects a shift towards Canadian-European cooperation. These models have already proven effective in NATO, and their assembly in Canada will strengthen the country's technological sovereignty.
The diversification of the fleet is aimed at strengthening defense capabilities in the Arctic and countering China's growing influence. However, experts warn of the difficulties of integrating heterogeneous systems and rising maintenance costs.
No comments:
Post a Comment