CANADA SHOUD BUY SWEDISH

FIGHTER JETS I MEAN. HAVING LIVED AND STUDIED AND WORKED IN STOCKHOLM 25 YEARS AGO, I AM A BIG FANOF THE SWEDES. THEY ARE SMARTER AND CLASSIER THAN AMERICAN THUGS. THEY MAKE BETTER PARTNERS. THAT'S WHY CARNEY AND CANADA SHOULD BUY SWEDISH FIGHTER JETS RATHER THAN AMERICAN F-35'S. https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/canada-s-f-35-delay-pentagon-raises-alarm-on-airpower-readiness/ar-AA241TKH?ocid=BingNewsVerp Saab Gripen: A Compelling Alternative Canada’s consideration of the Saab Gripen alongside or instead of the F-35 isn’t just political posturing — it reflects legitimate operational and economic advantages that the Swedish fighter offers. The Gripen has proven particularly well-suited for countries with challenging operational environments and limited defense budgets. The Gripen’s lower operating costs represent a significant advantage for Canada’s defense budget. While the F-35’s complex systems require specialized maintenance facilities and extensive training, the Gripen was designed for simpler, more cost-effective operations. This operational simplicity could be particularly valuable for Canada’s remote northern bases where complex maintenance infrastructure is limited. Swedish industry has also offered substantial domestic industrial benefits as part of a potential Gripen purchase, including technology transfers and domestic production opportunities that could strengthen Canada’s aerospace sector. This “domestic control” aspect appeals to Canadian policymakers who want greater sovereignty over their defense capabilities. The Gripen’s cold-weather performance and ability to operate from shorter runways could also make it better suited for Canada’s Arctic operations, where the F-35’s more complex systems might face greater challenges. Implications for NORAD and Continental Defense The stakes of Canada’s F-35 delays extend far beyond bilateral relations — they threaten the very foundation of North American security architecture. NORAD modernization depends on both nations fielding compatible, advanced fighter aircraft capable of intercepting modern threats including cruise missiles and hypersonic weapons. Canada’s vast Arctic territory requires constant surveillance and patrol capabilities that aging CF-18s can no longer provide effectively. The capability gap leaves critical air approaches to North America inadequately defended, potentially compromising the entire continental defense system. The delays also impact Canada’s ability to contribute meaningfully to NATO missions and coalition operations. As threats evolve and adversaries deploy increasingly sophisticated aircraft and weapons systems, Canada risks being left behind with outdated capabilities that limit its strategic value to allies. This situation puts additional strain on an already complex relationship between two nations that must work seamlessly together for continental defense. The Pentagon’s suspension of the PJBD reflects genuine concern that Canada may not be a reliable partner for shared security responsibilities. A Pattern of Procurement Problems Canada’s F-35 delays fit into a troubling pattern of defense procurement challenges that have plagued the country for decades. The Sea King helicopter replacement took over 20 years to complete, while the national shipbuilding strategy has faced repeated delays and cost overruns. This history of procurement dysfunction has eroded confidence among allies and defense industry partners. The political nature of Canadian defense procurement, where major acquisitions often become electoral issues rather than capability decisions, has contributed to this dysfunction. Each change of government brings new reviews, delays, and sometimes complete program cancellations that waste billions of dollars and years of progress. Charting a Path Forward Canada faces a critical decision point that will define its defense relationship with the United States and its role in global security for decades to come. The Pentagon’s unprecedented suspension of the PJBD serves as a wake-up call that business as usual is no longer acceptable. Resolving this crisis will require decisive action from Canadian leadership and a commitment to following through on defense spending promises. Whether Canada ultimately chooses the F-35, Gripen, or some combination of both matters less than making a decision and sticking with it. The longer Canada delays, the wider the capability gap grows and the more strained the relationship with its most important ally becomes. With global tensions rising and new threats emerging, Canada can’t afford to keep kicking the can down the road on critical defense decisions. The Pentagon’s alarm is clear — it’s time for Canada to step up and demonstrate that it’s serious about defending North America. FAQ What is the Permanent Joint Board on Defense (PJBD)? The PJBD is the highest-level forum for U.S.-Canada defense coordination, established in 1940 through the Ogdensburg Agreement. It has operated continuously for 86 years until its recent suspension, facilitating bilateral defense planning and cooperation through major conflicts and security challenges. Why is the Pentagon concerned about Canada’s F-35 delays? The Pentagon views the delays as indicative of Canada’s broader reluctance to meet defense spending commitments and take continental security seriously. The aging CF-18 fleet creates capability gaps that affect NORAD operations and North American defense readiness. What are the main advantages of the Saab Gripen over the F-35 for Canada? The Gripen offers lower operating costs, simpler maintenance requirements, better cold-weather performance, shorter runway capabilities, and potential for greater domestic industrial benefits. Its operational simplicity could be particularly valuable for Canada’s remote Arctic bases. How much is Canada planning to spend on defense? Canada plans to spend over $82 billion on capabilities over five years and $87 billion on NORAD modernization over 20 years. The U.S. wants Canada to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035, up from the 2% target Canada is meeting for the first time in 2025. What are the main problems with the F-35 program? The F-35 has faced significant challenges including its 8th Pentagon audit failure, 238-day development delays, a 51% readiness rate in the U.S. Air Force, and delays in the Block 4 upgrade program that would provide enhanced combat capabilities. How do these delays affect North American security? The delays create capability gaps in continental air defense, particularly in Canada’s vast Arctic territory. This compromises NORAD’s ability to detect and intercept modern threats like cruise missiles and hypersonic weapons, potentially leaving critical air approaches to North America inadequately defended.