World · North America · 1 hr ago
Canada receives first two F-35 jets as purchase plans remain under review
Canada’s air force has received its first two F-35 fighter jets at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.
The aircraft are intended to support training, but the air force has not said when pilot training will begin.
Canada had planned to buy 88 F-35s to replace its CF-18 Hornets, which are expected to reach the end of their service lives in the mid-2030s.
Prime Minister Mark Carney paused the planned purchase, and the size and shape of Canada’s order remain under review.
The review began amid concerns linked to U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade and annexation threats, and a former Canadian foreign minister has warned that Washington controls software used by the jets.
Canada may choose a mixed fleet that includes Saab Gripen fighters, while the first F-35s are expected to arrive in Canada in 2028.
Canada has received its first two F-35 fighter jets at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, where they will support training.
The Royal Canadian Air Force announced the delivery, while the number of aircraft Canada will ultimately buy remains under review, according to Global News.
The jets are the first arrivals in a planned fleet of 88 intended to replace the air force’s CF-18 Hornets.
The first aircraft are expected to arrive in Canada in 2028.
- Who
- The Royal Canadian Air Force received the first two jets.
- What
- Canada took delivery of two F-35A fighters for training. The full planned purchase remains under review, according to Global News.
- When
- The delivery was announced on October 24 and described as having taken place the previous day.
- Where
- Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, United States.
- Why
- The aircraft will support training for personnel preparing to bring the new fleet into service.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Canada approved the government-to-government acquisition agreement.
The first Canadian F-35 made its maiden flight in Texas.
Canada received its first two F-35s at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, according to the air force statement.
The first aircraft are expected to arrive in Canada.
The fleet is scheduled to reach initial operational capability.
The fleet is scheduled to reach full operational readiness.
- First delivery
- 2 F-35A fighters
- Delivery location
- Luke Air Force Base, Arizona
- Planned fleet
- 88 aircraft
- Training aircraft based at Luke
- 8 CF-35As
- Expected first arrival in Canada
- 2028
- Planned replacement
- Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornets
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The RCAF received its first two CF35As yesterday at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. The future of air and space power is built on more than equipment alone.
We are developing the skilled people, integrated capabilities, and modern tools we need to meet future challenges at home and abroad.
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