The Canadian government has announced that it is to procure 88 Lockheed Martin 5th-generation F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter jets for the Royal Canadian Air Force. The procurement has come about from the Future Fighter Capability Project competition. The procurement will also include a comprehensive training program.
The F-35 strengthens Canada's operational capability with its allies as a cornerstone for interoperability with NORAD and NATO. As a critical node in the 21st Century Security mission space, the F-35 gives pilots an advantage against any adversary and enabling them to execute their mission and come home safe.
“Together with our Canadian industry partners, we are honoured by this selection and the sustainment of critical jobs that will continue to equip Canadian workforces with advanced skills,” said Lorraine Ben, Chief Executive, Lockheed Martin Canada. “The F-35 program yields tremendous economic benefits for Canada's aerospace and defence industry, and we look forward to continued growth.”
Currently, the F-35 operates from 27 bases across the globe, with nine nations operating F-35s on home soil. There are over 890 F-35s in service at present, with more than 1,870 pilots and 13,500 maintainers who have been trained on the aircraft.
