Canada narrowed down its decade-long hunt for CF-18 replacement to two choices: Lockheed Martin F-35 and Saab’s Gripen.
The Government on Wednesday officially rejected Boeing’s Super Hornet offer. The country is acquiring a total of 88 fighter jets to replace its old CF-18s.
Saab is collaborating with Diehl Defence, MBDA UK, and RAFAEL; while Lockheed Martin has teamed up with Pratt and Whitney.
Over the coming weeks, Canada will finalize next steps for the process, which, based on further analysis of the 2 remaining bids, could involve proceeding to final negotiations with the top-ranked bidder or entering into a competitive dialogue, whereby the 2 remaining bidders would be provided with an opportunity to improve their proposals, the government said.
A contract award is expected next year. Delivery of first of these jets will take place in 2025.