U.S., CANADA SIGN AGREEMENT ON JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER
February 07, 2002

Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Edward C. “Pete” Aldridge, Jr., and his Canadian counterpart Assistant Deputy Minister for Materiel Alan Williams today signed a memorandum of understanding committing Canada to participate in the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) system development and demonstration phase.

This signed agreement will span the next 10 years and highlights the growing international impact of the JSF program. The U.S. and Canada acquisition chiefs also exchanged letters that outline the two allies overall vision for long-term cooperation on the JSF.

“This agreement serves just about every facet of our two countries’ national security imperatives,” said Aldridge. “Not just in terms of air dominance, but also interoperability, defense transformation, modernization, cost reduction, acquisition excellence, and the health of our industrial bases. This is a great day for both our countries.”

Additionally, Canada’s Williams said, “This is an important agreement for both the Department of National Defence and Canadian industry. This project will enhance interoperability with U.S. and allied forces, and will provide opportunities for Canadian industry to participate in this cutting-edge aerospace project.”

The Joint Strike Fighter, the largest DoD acquisition program, also sets new standards in development of manufacturing technologies, acquisition and business practices, and export licensing. This MOU also partners Canadian industry with U.S. and United Kingdom industries. The United Kingdom signed the first JSF MOU last year. With Canada’s participation in the program, U.S. industry has also sought teaming arrangements in Canada with strong opportunities for involvement not just in this phase, but also in the follow-on production.