The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge Good Talk -- Kings, Queens, Ambassadors and Jet Fighters - Dealing for Dollars, Jobs and Security.
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Nov 21, 2025 This week, Chantal Hébert and Bruce Anderson dive into the heated debate over Canada's fighter jet procurement. The U.S. ambassador's tough stance raises concerns of pressure, while Sweden’s royal visit aims to sway decisions in their favor. The discussion shifts to potential pipeline deals between Ottawa and Alberta, highlighting the complexity of regional politics. As the Prime Minister embarks on a global trade mission, the looming challenges within Canadian sovereignty and opposition dynamics add intrigue to the political landscape.
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Defense Procurement Is Geopolitical
- The F-35 procurement debate has become geopolitical, with the U.S. pressuring Canada while Sweden offers industrial partnership and jobs.
- Bruce Anderson says Canada is rightly reasserting control over defense choices in light of U.S. bullying tactics.
Politics Shapes Military Procurement
- Chantal Hébert warns buying U.S. equipment ties Canada into broader political control and risks being reduced to a resource supplier.
- She questions credibility when F-35 proponents have ties to industry lobbyists.
Unpredictable U.S. Policy Spurs Diversification
- Trump's rhetoric destabilizes traditional alliances and encourages partners to seek independence in defense choices.
- Bruce Anderson argues this fuels countries, including Canada, to diversify suppliers and assert sovereignty.