Canada receives first two F-35A fighters as full purchase stays under review

· Aviation · Canada

Canada has received its first two Lockheed Martin F-35A fighters, the start of replacing its aging CF-18 fleet, while the full scope of the purchase remains under review. The delivery marks a milestone in a long-running fighter replacement program that had been repeatedly debated and delayed. The F-35 is the most widely procured Western stealth fighter, and Canada's decision to take initial aircraft commits it to the type's training, logistics and sustainment ecosystem. However, the fact that the total buy is still being reviewed leaves uncertainty about final numbers and long-term spending. The government has not indicated when that review will conclude.

Why it matters：Canada's initial F-35 deliveries lock in training and sustainment commitments even as the final fleet size is undecided, a pattern that affects allied air power planning and Lockheed Martin's order book.

Key points

  • The aircraft replace the aging CF-18 fleet
  • The total size of Canada's F-35 purchase is still under review
  • F-35As are built by Lockheed Martin

Sources (original reporting)

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