Photo: A mock-up of an F-35 at Rockcliffe Airport, Ottawa. US president Donald Trump’s tariff war with Canada is raising questions about the Trudeau government’s $19 billion purchase of Lockheed Marti...

via Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al Jazeera — The deal, which needs approval from Congress, comes as Riyadh seeks Washington's help in its war with Yemen's Houthis.

Australia is contributing $1.44 billion to address maintenance issues with the US-led F-35 fighter jet program, a decision that has significant implications for Australian taxpayers under the AUKUS alliance. The article highlights how the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported a sharp decline in mission-capable F-35 aircraft from 67% in 2021 to 44% by 2025, raising concerns about the program's viability. This funding commitment reflects Australia's role as a 'partner nation' in the joint defense initiative, which has drawn criticism for its financial burden and potential long-term costs. The piece also connects these issues to the legacy of the Abbott government's controversial decision to acquire the Lockheed Martin jets, emphasizing how ongoing maintenance challenges continue to impact taxpayers over a decade later. While the article acknowledges Australia's strategic alignment with US military interests, it questions whether the investment is justified given the persistent technical problems and the broader geopolitical implications of such partnerships.

via Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al Jazeera — US President Donald Trump has again signalled support for selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkiye.

The Royal Canadian Air Force and the U.S. Air Force conducted a joint flypast over Ottawa to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States' Declaration of Independence. The event, held at the U.S. ambassador's residence, featured American F-35 Lightning II jets and Canadian CF-18 Hornets, highlighting the collaboration between the two nations under NORAD. U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra emphasized Canada's role as an international partner in the F-35 program, noting that Canada will become a 'proud owner' of the jets by fall. The flypast underscored the longstanding military cooperation between Canada and the U.S., despite ongoing trade tensions and disputes over infrastructure projects like the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Hoekstra also addressed lingering issues, including provincial liquor bans on American alcohol, and expressed optimism about resolving differences. The event symbolized the enduring alliance between the two countries, even as they navigate complex geopolitical challenges.

YouTube video by B.C. Begley

The U.S. will increase military sales to India, with plans to eventually provide F-35 fighter jets, signaling a new era in defense ties..

PM Modi and Trump discuss India-US trade, defense ties, nuclear energy, and F-35 jets, aiming to boost trade to $500B and strengthen global partnerships.

Vance Praises India, Flatters Modi, While Pitching For More Energy, Defense Sales.

The factory, KONGSBERG's first outside Norway, will manufacture Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) and Joint-Strike Missiles (JSM) for the Australian Defence Force.