The F-35 Lightning II is a 5th generation multi-role stealth fighter aircraft being acquired by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). The aircraft is designed to perform air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, and will replace the CF-18 Hornet which has been in service with the RCAF since the 1980s.
The F-35 Lightning II program has been mired in controversy since its inception, with cost overruns and delays plaguing the project. Despite this, the Canadian government has remained committed to acquiring the aircraft, and on Monday they announced a $14.2 billion deal to purchase 88 F-35s.
The first of these aircraft are expected to enter service in 2026, with the full fleet being operational by 2033 or 2034. With this deal, Canada becomes the last of the original eight F-35 partners to acquire the aircraft.
The F-35 Lightning II is a highly capable fighter jet, and there is no doubt that it will be a valuable asset for the RCAF. However, given the history of cost overruns and delays associated with the program, one has to wonder if this is really the best use of Canadian taxpayers’ money.
