Fighter Aircraft

Canada expects to decide by the end of 2026 how to proceed with its fighter procurement review, including the paused plan to acquire 88 F-35As valued at CAD $27.7 billion. Saab and Bombardier–BAE Systems have outlined potential Canadian industrial roles, but no Gripen selection, workshare, new solicitation, or funded contract has been confirmed.

The Royal Canadian Air Force received its first two F-35A fighters on October 22, 2026, with the aircraft staying at Luke Air Force Base for training. Canada’s planned 88-aircraft purchase and possible mixed F-35/Gripen fleet remain under review, leaving the scale of related aircraft, weapons, training, software, and infrastructure demand uncertain.

The Air Force’s FY2026 force-structure assessment sets a 2035 target of 1,509 combat-coded fighters for a medium-risk posture, with 1,723 required for a lower-risk posture. FY2027 plans include 24 F-15EXs and 24 F-35s in the base budget, while 14 more F-35s depend on reconciliation funding—making congressional action, multiyear agreements, and production capacity central to the demand outlook.

The U.S. Navy has awarded Boeing a $20 billion contract for the development of the F/A-XX, a next-generation carrier-based strike fighter. This award positions Boeing as the prime contractor and is crucial for extending the capabilities of the carrier fleet, with implications for industry suppliers in advanced aircraft systems and integration.

Switzerland announces changes in its procurement strategy for F-35A fighter jets, increasing costs and reducing the order size. The Swiss Federal Council's decision, influenced by audit findings, underscores the need for clear contractual terms in defense acquisitions.

The U.S. Air Force's F-47 fighter program has officially entered its engineering and manufacturing phase, supported by a $3.45 billion FY 2026 budget and a proposed $5 billion for FY 2027. This development signifies potential procurement opportunities for contractors focusing on military aviation technology and sustainment.

Canada is advancing its acquisition of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35A stealth fighters, with initial deliveries set for late 2026. This procurement underscores Canada's commitment to modernizing its air force capabilities while aligning with NATO and NORAD interoperability standards.

Poland has officially deployed its first Lockheed Martin F-35A Husarz fighters to the Łask base, part of a significant $4.6 billion modernization initiative. This shift not only strengthens Poland's air defense but also presents new procurement opportunities in advanced aviation and missile systems for defense contractors.

The U.S. Air Force's F-47 air superiority fighter program is progressing well, as Boeing reports significant advancements post-contract award. This development highlights ongoing procurement opportunities, particularly for aerospace contractors in fighter aircraft innovation and manufacturing.

The U.S. Air Force is fast-tracking the acquisition of the Northrop Grumman APG-85 radar system, now set for delivery in April 2028. This strategic move unlocks up to $1.7 billion in retrofitting opportunities for contractors involved in advanced radar and fighter aircraft systems, underlining the military's commitment to modernizing its capabilities.

The Department of Defense has awarded Lockheed Martin a $177.49 million contract for the construction of three F-35 flight sciences test aircraft. This move is part of ongoing Block 4 modernization efforts, indicating a sustained commitment to enhancing the F-35 program and presenting opportunities for contractors in related sectors.