Mark Carney’s government is slated to announce new investments Monday to strengthen Canada’s defence industrial capabilities, and part of the press briefing is expected to focus on Quebec’s flagship Bombardier.
“The announcement will also contain positive elements for Bombardier, reflecting our continued contributions to Canada’s defence and aerospace capabilities,” the company said in a message sent to press agencies.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly, Defence Minister David McGuinty and Secretary of State for Defence Procurement Stephen Fuhr are expected to unveil the new investments as part of Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy, the federal government said in a news release Friday.
Since the trade climate with the United States has been tense, Ottawa has been revisiting its decision to proceed with the purchase of the 88 F-35s announced in 2023 by Justin Trudeau’s government.
New possible Swedish collaboration could lead to more job creation
In the meantime, Swedish manufacturer Saab has submitted an offer to Canada for a mixed fleet of multirole fighters, including 72 Gripen — some of which could be produced in Canada — as well as GlobalEye surveillance aircraft, based on Bombardier’s Global 6500 business jet.
In its proposal, Saab foresees the creation of 12,600 direct and indirect Canadian jobs.
According to Minister Joly, about 9,000 jobs would be linked to the Gripen, while the assembly of the GlobalEye could generate 3,600 additional jobs at Bombardier.
This potential contract would be in addition to the six multirole surveillance aircraft to be purchased from Bombardier already announced this past December.
Over the past few months, Prime Minister Carney has outlined a defense procurement strategy that includes Bombardier’s Dorval facility. This strategy aims to overhaul Canada’s defense procurement process and boost domestic research and development, as well as strengthen military and industrial cooperation with our European allies and boost investment in domestic defense manufacturing.
