Many also support a mixed fleet.
A new EKOS poll shows a plurality of Canadians support future purchases of Saab Gripen fighter jets over the F-35 after our locked-in purchase of 16 F-35s is complete.
When asked, “Based on what you know, which option do you believe is best for Canada?” 13% supported continuing with the F-35 as Canada’s primary fighter jet. 43% supported switching to the Gripen for future purchases. 29% supported maintaining a mixed fleet of F-35s and Gripens. Four percent said none of the above/choose a different aircraft, and 12% said they did not know or did not respond.
The Gripen is more popular than the F-35 in all regions and provinces. The F-35 is most popular in Alberta (18%), but even there, support for the Gripen is 25 points higher (43%).
51% of Liberal voters, 60% of NDP voters, 69% of Green voters, and 42% of Bloc voters favour the Gripen. Conservative voters are more split, with 30% favouring the F-35, 22% favouring the Gripen, and 30% favouring a mixed fleet.
Based on this survey, the safest option for the government would be to adopt the mixed fleet route, as it would partially satisfy those who want the Gripen, those who want the F-35, and, by definition, those who want a mixed fleet. It’s also the option that gives Canada some redundancy, can maintain a relationship with the U.S. while avoiding overdependence, and build a stronger relationship with Sweden – a NATO ally and important defence partner from which Canada can learn much about building a robust domestic defence sector.
Spencer Fernando
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