The F-35 fighter jet, developed in the U.S., outperformed the Swedish Gripen in a 2021 Defence Department competition based on technical and military capabilities. The assessment evaluated the jets’ abilities to defend North America and conduct successful missions against modern military threats.
Scoring 95% for military capabilities, the F-35 scored 57.1 out of 60, while the Gripen-E scored 33%, earning 19.8 points, according to the Department of National Defence (DND). Notably, the F-35 excelled in “mission performance” and potential for aircraft upgrades.
The DND, when asked to comment, stated that the F-35 purchase review is ongoing. Experts, including David Perry from the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, emphasized the F-35’s superiority, attributing the decision to reconsider the F-35 purchase to the evident performance gap.
Justin Massie, a defense expert, noted the Gripen’s inferiority in military capabilities based on the assessment. The assessment’s results are crucial as Canada contemplates purchasing fewer F-35s in favor of Gripens.
Former Royal Canadian Air Force lieutenant-general Yvan Blondin highlighted the F-35’s unmatched stealth and integration capabilities, labeling it the world’s premier fighter jet. However, retired officer Charles “Duff” Sullivan argued that the F-35 selection criteria favored the aircraft.
Moreover, the government is reviewing the F-35 purchase due to concerns about economic benefits. Saab representatives defended the Gripen’s adaptability and upgrade potential, emphasizing its suitability for future missions.
Lockheed Martin, the F-35 manufacturer, asserted its aircraft’s superiority, while Canada has only committed to purchasing 16 F-35s. The possibility of a mixed fleet, with Gripens potentially being assembled in Canada, is being considered.
Lockheed Martin has pledged significant benefits over the contract’s lifespan, with the firm cautioning that reducing the F-35 order could diminish economic advantages. The decision to procure a mixed fleet should align with Canada’s long-term military requirements, according to experts.