Ottawa has started to make payments for key components for 14 additional U.S.-built F-35s, even as the Carney government has been reviewing future fighter-jet purchases in the context of trade tensions with Washington, sources have told CBC News.

The money for these 14 aircraft is in addition to the contract for a first order of 16 F-35s, which will start being delivered to the Canadian Armed Forces at the end of the year.

According to sources, the new expenses are related to the purchase of so-called “long-lead items,” which are parts that must be ordered well in advance of the delivery of a fully assembled aircraft.

Canada had to make these expenditures to maintain its place in the long-term delivery schedule and avoid being replaced by other buyers in the queue, sources said.

  • Voroxpete@sh.itjust.works
    45·
    3 个月前

    Have you noticed the very large, very aggressive expansionist autocracy on the other side of the arctic circle from us? Do you consider that maybe they might also be a potential threat?

    Having a plane that massively outclasses everything in Russia’s fleet is not a bad idea, no matter what is happening to the south of us. A mixed fleet hedges our bets, giving us responses to both of the biggest threats we’re facing right now.