U.S. President Donald Trump's ambassador to Canada is warning of consequences to the continental defence pact if Canada does not move forward with the purchase of 88 F-35 fighter jets. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra told CBC News in an exclusive interview at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. Royal Canadian Air Force Col. Travis Morehen is seen in the NORAD command centre in Colorado in May 2018. Pete Hoekstra, U.S. ambassador to Canada, is warning of consequences to the continental defence pact if Canada does not move forward with the purchase of 88 F-35 fighter jets. Whereas the F-35 "would allow for easier and greater interoperability with the U.S. Air Force — an important consideration both in NORAD and overseas operations."

Source: CBC News January 26, 2026 13:32 UTC