"Abandoning American Suppliers," Carney Announces: The Canadian Air Force Will Procure a Batch of Swedish Military Reconnaissance Aircraft

[Global Network Report] "Abandoning American arms suppliers, Canada turns to Swedish aircraft," reported the New York Times, stating that after multiple commitments to reduce military spending on the U.S., Canadian Prime Minister Carney announced on the 27th local time that the Canadian Air Force will procure a batch of Swedish military reconnaissance aircraft.

The New York Times stated that the Swedish Saab company's "GlobalEye" airborne early warning aircraft defeated two American reconnaissance aircraft, including products from Boeing, and was ultimately selected by Canada. Meanwhile, Canada is evaluating whether to continue purchasing up to 88 F-35 fighter jets from the U.S. or to switch to procuring the "Gripen" fighter jet, also from Saab. However, Carney stated at the press conference that these two procurements are unrelated.

Reports indicate that the Canadian government has not disclosed how many aircraft it will procure, nor has it revealed the total cost of the project. A document updated by the Canadian Ministry of Defense last December showed that funding for the project has exceeded 5 billion Canadian dollars (approximately 24.8 billion RMB).

The Associated Press, which also reported on this matter, mentioned that NATO is also considering selecting Saab aircraft instead of American models.

Swedish Prime Minister Kristersson stated that this move by Canada will strengthen the relationship between the two countries.

The New York Times noted that since taking office, Carney has repeatedly stated that compared to the past, Canada's spending flowing to American military enterprises will decrease. Carney mentioned last month in a speech that "the days of every dollar spent by the Canadian military resulting in 70 cents flowing to the U.S. are over."