Canada is reconsidering its $19 billion deal to purchase 88 F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin due to escalating trade tensions with the United States under President Donald Trump’s administration

Prime Minister Mark Carney has ordered a review of the contract to explore alternative options, prompted by Trump’s imposition of a 25% tariff on Canadian goods and threats of economic coercion. While Canada has already committed to the first 16 jets, with delivery expected in 2026, Defence Minister Bill Blair indicated openness to non-American alternatives, such as the Swedish Saab Gripen, particularly if they offer opportunities for domestic assembly and maintenance. The review reflects broader concerns about the reliability of U.S. partnerships amidst Trump’s policies, with Portugal also reevaluating its own F-35 purchase.