First of all, I want to note that the contract we signed is thanks to a rigorous, open and transparent competition that this government conducted free from political interference. National Defence is seeking $19.8 million to commence implementation activities in these estimates, and F-35 deliveries will begin in 2026, and they will support initial training that will be conducted in the United States.
We have to, however, prepare for the arrival of these jets here in this country, so we've already taken steps to prepare for the construction of fighter squadron facilities in Bagotville and in Cold Lake, which I know is good news for those bases.
We're also seeking $154 million to advance construction on forces bases across this country so that we can make sure we're using the newest infrastructure, modernizing and recapitalizing existing infrastructure. One of the greatest things about the F-35s is that they're going to allow us to be interoperable with our allies. But in order for that interoperability to take hold, we have to have the technology on the ground in the bases so that we are operating on the same footing as our allies, and that's the work we are doing right now at National Defence.
Thank you.