Lockheed Martin’s senior executives will visit Quebec on Tuesday to confirm plans for servicing Canada’s F-35 aircraft at L3Harris facilities in Mirabel, currently responsible for maintaining Canada’s CF-18 fleet. This visit marks their first significant appearance in Canada following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement last year of a review of the government’s 88 F-35 purchase plans.
Sources indicate Lockheed Martin aims to proceed cautiously on the politically sensitive issue but will reassert its commitment to servicing Canadian aircraft within the country. The decision to reassess the 88 F-35 order for the Royal Canadian Air Force came in 2023 amid heightened trade and political tensions with the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump.
In light of these developments, the Canadian government is contemplating a mixed fleet featuring both F-35s and Swedish Gripens. With an initial order for 16 F-35s set for delivery this year to replace aging CF-18s, recent reports reveal Canada’s discreet progress in acquiring an additional 14 F-35 aircraft.
Notable political figures have been invited to the Mirabel event, although National Defence Minister David McGuinty and Industry Minister Mélanie Joly will be absent. The event expects the presence of senior American executives from Lockheed Martin and L3Harris.
Lockheed Martin, in a media advisory, emphasized that its collaboration with L3Harris will enhance Canada’s aircraft maintenance control, reduce reliance on international logistics, and improve operational readiness. L3Harris is seeking government investments to modernize their Mirabel facilities, crucial for preserving thousands of regional jobs.
The proposed modernization project, estimated at around $200 million, primarily focuses on security enhancements. The Quebec government has shown interest in backing the initiative, supported by the Bloc Québécois. MP Jean-Denis Garon from Mirabel highlighted the importance of aircraft maintenance as a high-value expertise, urging Ottawa to consider a broader North American regional depot status.