On July 4, 2026, the Royal Canadian Air Force and the U.S. Air Force conducted a joint flypast over Ottawa to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence. During a celebration at the U.S. Ambassador's official residence, two American F-35 Lightning II jets and two Canadian CF-18 Hornets flew at low altitude to demonstrate the ongoing aerial cooperation between the two nations under the Norad command. U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra noted that Canada will become the proud owner of F-35 fighter jets this fall, a move currently under review by Prime Minister Mark Carney's government. Despite lingering tensions regarding trade wars and the Gordie Howe International Bridge, Hoekstra emphasized the strength of the binational relationship and the vital role Norad plays in maintaining continental security for both countries.