Industry Minister Mélanie Joly challenged the $27-billion F-35 jet deal, arguing it falls short on job creation for Canadians, as discussions with Swedish firm Saab could yield 10,000 aerospace jobs from its Gripen E fighter proposal. Joly emphasized the need for military procurement to enhance domestic benefits, while the government reviews its options amid ongoing scrutiny from opposition Conservatives. The F-35 deal, initiated in 2023, has already faced complications following a U.S. trade war. No final decision has been made on whether to continue with the F-35 program or explore alternatives.
