Question Period Note: Procurement of Canadian F35 jets

In December 2017, the Government of Canada launched an open and transparent competition to permanently replace Canada’s fighter fleet with 88 advanced jets—the Future Fighter Capability Project.

Note:

• All questions related to capability, technical issues, deliveries and requirements, as well as questions related to in-service support costs, including the complete life-cycle costs, should be answered by the Minister of National Defence
• All questions related to the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy and Canadian Industry’s participation on the Joint Strike Fighter Program should be answered by the Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
• All questions related to trade issues should be answered by the Minister of Foreign Affairs or the Ministers responsible for Trade as Public Services and Procurement Canada has no involvement

• The Government is committed to ensuring that members of the Canadian Armed Forces have the equipment they need to do their jobs and protect Canadians, while also ensuring the best value for Canadians
  • The new fleet of CF-35 jets will deliver the best fighter capability for our country with an optimal solution in terms of capability, price and economic benefits for Canadians and its acquisition will drive significant work for Canadian industry over a 25-year period
  • Canadian industry is expected to have significant opportunities to contribute to the sustainment of fighters in areas such as airframe and engine depots, as well as in training and maintenance of components over the life of the fleet

As part of its defence policy, Our North Strong and Free, the Government of Canada has renewed its commitment to procure 88 advanced fighter jets for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

An independent fairness monitor oversaw the entire competitive process to ensure a level playing field for all bidders. An independent third-party reviewer was also engaged to assess the quality and effectiveness of the procurement approach.

On January 9, 2023, the Government of Canada announced that following an open, fair and transparent competition, Canada had finalized an agreement with the United States government and Lockheed Martin with Pratt & Whitney for the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets for the Royal Canadian Air Force.

On November 25, 2024, the Government of Canada announced that Canada has identified L3Harris MAS from Mirabel as its strategic partner. The company will collaborate with the Canadian government and the F-35 Joint Program Office to explore the requirement for an air vehicle depot.

The project is estimated to be $19 billion, which includes associated equipment, initial weapons and ammunition, sustainment set-up and services, as well as the construction of Fighter Squadron Facilities.