Lockheed Martin Corporation offered to create more jobs in Canada if Ottawa proceeded to buy all of the jets it ordered under the previous $14 billion deal, The Globe and Mail reported on Thursday citing sources familiar with the matter.
In January 2023, the Canadian government finalized the contract with Lockheed Martin to acquire 88 F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, aiming to replace the aging CF-18 fleet. However, Ottawa committed to funding only 16 aircraft, the first of which is due to arrive in 2026, and is not legally bound to purchase the remaining 72 from Lockheed Martin.
As per the report, Canada's second option is the JS 39 Gripen fighter jet built by Swedish Saab, the runner-up in the competition for the 2023 contract.
