Lockheed Martin and MAS, the Canadian arm of L3Harris Technologies, have formalized plans to enhance cooperation by developing an F-35 sustainment depot in Mirabel, Quebec, aligning with Canada’s push for greater in-country maintenance capabilities.
As part of the framework, a joint executive steering committee will oversee the development of site infrastructure, workforce skill-building programs, and long-term sustainment coverage. MAS has already been designated a key partner for the CF-35 program, under which the Royal Canadian Air Force plans to induct up to 88 F-35 Lightning II jets to replace its legacy CF-18 fleet.
The project is intended to enhance Canada’s defense sovereignty while strengthening its industrial base. The Mirabel facility will be integrated into a network of roughly 30 local suppliers, with each aircraft generating an estimated $3.2 million in contributions across the global F-35 fleet of more than 1,300 aircraft.
Canada is scheduled to receive an initial 16 CF-35 jets by 2026, with further procurement decisions underway for long-lead items associated with an additional 14 aircraft.
