Canada’s first F-35A fighter has completed its maiden flight in Fort Worth, Texas, as Ottawa continues to review whether to proceed with the full 88-jet purchase. The aircraft, built by Lockheed Martin for the Royal Canadian Air Force, flew for the first time on 23 September and is the first of the jets intended to modernise Canada’s fighter fleet.
The aircraft is designated AR-1 in production and will enter Canadian service as the CF-35A. It flew from Lockheed Martin’s F-35 final-assembly site and marks the start of airborne testing for the first jet in the programme. Reporting indicates Canada remains committed to the initial 16 aircraft, even though the wider procurement decision has not been resolved.
Canada agreed in 2023 to buy 88 F-35As to replace its CF-18 Hornet fleet, but the government ordered a review in March 2025 to determine whether the jet remains the best option. The first aircraft is expected to support training in the United States before later deliveries to Canada, which some reporting places in 2028.