BREAKING: F-35 Deal COLLAPSING? Rolls-Royce Move Turns Canada’s Gripen Into America’s Worst Nightmare 

A new defense crisis: Canada’s F-35 contract in jeopardy, paving the way for a major North American air-power shift

Canada is facing one of the most significant military-political shocks in years after Prime Minister Mark Carney ordered a full review of its multibillion-dollar F-35 contract with U.S. defense giant Lockheed Martin. The deal, long considered a cornerstone of Canada’s plan to modernize its air force, is now in jeopardy. The sudden reassessment has not only created tension with Washington but also opened the door to a potentially transformative shift in North American air-power.

A blow to U.S.-Canada defense relations

Government sources say the review was prompted by growing concerns over political instability in the United States, particularly as former President T.R.U.M.P continues to escalate trade pressure and threatens retaliatory measures against Ottawa. A Canadian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted:

“We cannot build a national defense strategy based on an unpredictable political environment.”

Washington responded sharply. U.S. lawmakers described Canada’s move as “uncooperative” and warned that it could “undermine regional defense unity.”

 Rolls-Royce enters the race: A new advantage for Saab Gripen

Amid the F-35 uncertainty, Sweden’s Saab Gripen has suddenly emerged as a formidable contender. The most striking development: the possibility of Rolls-Royce supplying customized engines for the Gripen — a move that could dramatically alter the competitive landscape.

If realized, Canada could gain:

A more flexible fighter optimized for Arctic operations
Lower operating costs compared to the F-35
Greater operational autonomy without overreliance on U.S. military supply chains

Defense analysts highlight that Rolls-Royce engines could provide optimized performance in extreme cold, a critical factor in Canada’s strategy to secure the Arctic.

North America faces a potential “defense rupture”

For decades, the U.S. and Canada have been inseparable in continental defense. The suspension of the F-35 program, however, has led analysts to warn of the first significant “strategic rift” in decades.

An Ottawa defense expert cautioned:

“If Canada pulls out of the F-35 program, the U.S. will have to rethink the entire structure of its air defense. This is not just a hardware issue — it’s a matter of trust.”

Supporters of Carney’s decision argue that overreliance on Washington leaves Canada vulnerable to political fluctuations. They see this as the moment to reassert sovereignty over national defense.

 Arctic security pressure

Arctic security is heating up. Melting ice is opening new maritime routes, Russia is increasing its military presence, and great-power competition is intensifying. These factors compel Canada to seek a fighter jet solution better suited to extreme northern conditions.

While the F-35 is highly regarded for stealth technology, experts warn that its high operational costs and maintenance demands could impose a “massive long-term financial burden” on Canada. In contrast, the Gripen is known for its flexibility, ease of maintenance, and the ability to operate from improvised runways — all critical in Arctic conditions.

2026: A potential turning point for air-power balance

If Canada pivots to the Gripen, it could mark the most significant realignment in North American military aviation since the Cold War. Washington is expected to intensify lobbying, possibly using trade leverage to pull Ottawa back toward the F-35. But Canada also has compelling strategic reasons to explore a different path.

An international defense analyst predicts:

“2026 could mark the emergence of a new, multipolar air-power alliance in North America — less dependent on the U.S., and challenging America’s absolute lead.”

Canada’s defense community, international analysts, and Washington are now watching closely. The coming months could reshape the strategic and technological landscape of North American air-power for decades to come.

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Canada đang phải đối mặt với một trong những cú sốc chính trị-quân sự quan trọng nhất trong nhiều năm sau khi Thủ tướng Mark Carney ra lệnh xem xét lại toàn bộ hợp đồng F-35 trị giá hàng tỷ USD với gã khổng lồ quốc phòng Mỹ Lockheed Martin.