PM says F-35 review ongoing after Norad chief says they’re not critical

By Canadian Press on March 31, 2026.

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney is choosing his words carefully after the head of Norad suggested advanced aircraft like the F-35 are not critical to continental defence.

Asked about the fighter jet contract at a news conference today, Carney said his government is still considering a range of factors in its review of plans to purchase a fleet of F-35s.

Those include Canada’s defence requirements, interoperability, value for money and broader economic benefits.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Gregory Guillot inadvertently contributed to the political debate in Canada over the fighter jet procurement when he told a congressional panel earlier this month that fifth-generation fighter jets like the F-35 are “frankly” not needed to defend North America’s borders.

The Norad commander said such advanced stealth fighters are better suited to attacking targets overseas.

The prime minister didn’t say if he has read his own government’s F-35 review report, and did not offer any hints on a timeline for completing the procurement review he ordered last year.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 31, 2026.

Kyle Duggan, The Canadian Press