Canada's GCAP Observer Status Signals Shift Away from US Defense Dependence
Canada has become the first observer nation in the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), a sixth-generation fighter project by Italy, Japan, and the UK. Defense Minister David McGuinty framed the move as building non-US defense relationships amid deteriorating ties with Washington under President Trump. The decision comes as Canada reviews its F-35 procurement, having already committed to 16 aircraft but considering a mixed fleet with Saab Gripen. Prime Minister Mark Carney, who won the 2025 election after replacing Justin Trudeau, has pushed back against Trump's tariffs and annexation comments. McGuinty emphasized that GCAP involvement is separate from Canada's immediate fighter replacement needs, as the program won't enter service until 2035. The move aligns with Carney's call at the 2026 World Economic Forum for middle powers to cooperate against uncertainty and hard power politics.
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