NDP MPs Matthew Kellway and Christine Moore are holding a news conference Friday on Canada's F-35 purchase as Associate Minister of Defence Julian Fantino attends meetings in Washington.

The NDP has been critical of Canada's plans to buy up to 65 F-35 fighter jets to replace the country's aging CF-18 planes.

Production is reportedly behind schedule and partner countries have cut their orders, risking a price increase for Canada or late delivery.

Fantino is meeting with his counterparts to discuss the purchase.