The DND is looking to replace our againg fleet of CF-18 Hornets by 2020. The Canadian gov. has invested 150$ million dollars into the F35 JSF program and is looking at purchasing 80 of the aircraft for aprox. 3.8$ billion dollars. However the 3.8 doesn't include training, sustainment, and any follow up costs.
Now on Monday, may12, the federal gov. announced a reduction on the purchase from the original 80 to 65. Stating that the new fighters will have significantly greater capacity than our existing ones. But yet, two days later the gov. says that purchasing the F35 is no guarantee. The Canadian gov. is going to keep its options open for the replacement fighters.
So....we get involved with the JSF program, invest 150$ million dollars into it, announcement to buy 80, then reduced to 65, and now feds might not buy any. Exactly what the hell are they doing?
Now on Monday, may12, the federal gov. announced a reduction on the purchase from the original 80 to 65. Stating that the new fighters will have significantly greater capacity than our existing ones. But yet, two days later the gov. says that purchasing the F35 is no guarantee. The Canadian gov. is going to keep its options open for the replacement fighters.
So....we get involved with the JSF program, invest 150$ million dollars into it, announcement to buy 80, then reduced to 65, and now feds might not buy any. Exactly what the hell are they doing?