Retired Canadian Air Force General Yvan Blondin, who previously advocated for the purchase of American F-35 fighter jets, now advises against the deal. The reason is the unpredictable and hostile position of the United States under President Donald Trump.

“The United States used to be the pillar of alliances, but now we cannot rely on them for protection,” Blondin wrote on LinkedIn on March 25. In his opinion, Canada must rethink its defense strategy based on the new reality, where even its own existence is under threat.

Blondin was a supporter of the F-35 under Prime Minister Stephen Harper. However, high costs and technical problems have stalled the deal. In 2023, the Liberal government announced the purchase of 88 F-35 fighters for $19 billion, but only 16 have been ordered so far.

The main problem, according to the general, is not the aircraft itself, but the complete US control over its operation, including software and spare parts. He proposed a mixed fleet option: some F-35s and some European aircraft such as the Rafale or Gripen, as well as investment in the development of sixth-generation fighters.

Liberal leader Mark Carney has already initiated a review of the deal and is in talks with France, Britain and Sweden about the possibility of assembling fighters in Canada.

Experts warn that dependence on the US for defense could result in strategic vulnerability.