NORAD Pact Would Change if Canada Pulls Out of F-35 Deal, Trump Envoy Tells Ottawa U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra stated that NORAD arrangements might need alteration if Canada does not fulfill its commitment to acquire 88 American-made F-35 fighter jets. Hoekstra indicated that if Canada scales back its order, the U.S. would likely increase its own F-35 purchases and flight frequency in Canadian airspace to compensate for the capability gap. This situation implies a potential restructuring of the North American Air Defense Command.

• U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra warns NORAD arrangements could change.
• The potential change is linked to Canada’s commitment to purchase 88 F-35 fighter jets.
• If Canada doesn’t complete the order, the U.S. may buy more F-35s and increase flights into Canadian airspace.
• This action would be to fill any capability gaps left by Canada’s reduced order.