Canada Seeks Entry to Rival Stealth Jet Project, Potentially Snubbing U.S.

Canada is formally asking to join a major allied fighter jet program, a move signaling a strategic shift away from reliance on the United States. Ottawa is lobbying to become an observer nation in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). This project, a partnership between Britain, Italy, and Japan, aims to build a next-generation stealth fighter jet by 2035. An observer role is typically a first step toward full partnership. It would allow Canada to access advanced technology and participate in early discussions. Analysts see the bid as an effort to secure cutting-edge military capabilities while diversifying from the U.S. defense industry. The initiative gains urgency with the possibility of a second Trump presidency, which could bring unpredictable demands on allies. Canada’s current fleet of CF-18 jets is aging. The government remains officially committed to a competing U.S. program, the F-35. However, the GCAP bid provides a high-profile alternative. The GCAP partners have confirmed Canada’s interest. They are expected to review the request in the coming months.