Lockheed Martin’s top executives are set to visit Quebec on Tuesday to confirm their intention to service Canada’s F-35 aircraft at the L3Harris facilities in Mirabel, which currently handle maintenance for Canada’s CF-18 fleet. This visit marks their first significant appearance in Canada since Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a review of the government’s plan to acquire 88 F-35s last year.
While aiming to avoid stirring controversy on the politically sensitive matter, Lockheed Martin will reaffirm its commitment to servicing Canadian aircraft within the country. The decision to reassess the 88 F-35 order for the Royal Canadian Air Force was prompted by heightened trade and political tensions with the Canadian government following Donald Trump assuming the U.S. presidency.
The Canadian government is contemplating a mixed fleet approach, considering a combination of F-35s and Swedish Gripens for its fighter jet needs. Currently, Canada has a confirmed order for 16 F-35s, with delivery expected to commence later this year to replace the aging CF-18 fleet. Recent reports indicate that Canada has discreetly initiated steps towards procuring an additional 14 F-35 aircraft.
The forthcoming event in Mirabel has invited several politicians, although National Defence Minister David McGuinty and Industry Minister Mélanie Joly are not planning to attend. Notable figures expected at the event include senior executives from Lockheed Martin and L3Harris.
Lockheed Martin, in its communication, emphasized that the collaboration with L3Harris would grant Canada enhanced control over maintenance operations, reduce reliance on international logistics, and bolster operational readiness. L3Harris is lobbying for financial support from the Canadian and Quebec governments to upgrade its Mirabel facilities, citing the potential impact on thousands of regional jobs.
The envisioned transformation of the Mirabel facilities into a maintenance depot for Canadian and American F-35s is estimated to cost around $200 million, with a focus on security enhancements. The Quebec government has shown interest in investing in the project, backed by the Bloc Québécois.
Bloc Québécois MP Jean-Denis Garon highlighted the significance of aircraft maintenance as value-added work requiring advanced expertise, advocating for Ottawa to seek designation as a North American regional depot rather than solely a national one.