The Canadian military has announced plans to acquire new helicopters to respond to potential crashes involving the F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets in the Arctic.
The decision comes amid concerns that the aircraft’s single-engine feature might be a drawback for operations in the country’s far north, where harsh weather conditions and vast, remote terrain heighten the risks associated with engine failure.
According to a senior Royal Canadian Air Force officer, the new helicopters could replace the service’s current Griffon fleet in carrying out specialized missions, including emergency response.
These choppers would also support joint operations with the US military and participate in Canada’s overseas missions in Latvia.
Reports suggest that 18.4 billion Canadian dollars ($12.7 billion) will be invested over the next 20 years to support the program.
While the exact specifications of the Arctic helicopter have not been revealed, formal talks are expected to begin this summer, with the goal of achieving initial operational capability by 2033.
F-35 Concerns
In 2022, Canada announced its decision to acquire 88 US-made F-35 stealth fighters for 19 billion Canadian dollars ($14.2 billion), marking the country’s largest defense investment in 30 years.
The procurement was confirmed in 2023, with the first aircraft expected to be delivered in 2026 and the full fleet set for delivery between 2032 and 2034.
While the F-35s have not yet been delivered, concerns have already arisen about their suitability for Arctic operations.
Some lawmakers argue that the two-engine CF-18 would be a more reliable option, offering greater safety for missions in the ice-covered regions.
In the event of an engine failure in an F-35, retrieving or rescuing the pilot would be challenging due to the isolated and harsh conditions.
Despite these technical concerns, former Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay assured that the F-35’s advanced technology would likely minimize the risk of failure in the Arctic.
A Bigger Issue?
Some defense analysts are urging Canada to reconsider its F-35 purchase amid an escalating trade dispute with the US.
Tension between the two nations has grown sharply due to ongoing tariff conflicts, leading to retaliatory measures on goods by both countries.
The analysts warned that the degree of control the Pentagon will hold over Canada’s future F-35 fleet might create a “strategic vulnerability” for Ottawa, as Washington will play a key role in the upgrades necessary to maintain the aircraft.
