Axe The Albatross

My blogging compatriot provides the low down, I'd like to add the necessary outrage. Anybody who knows anything knows that this government is under selling the cost of the F35's, and it seems a little research shows a 21 BILLION cost- but hey what's another 5 billion on top of an already obscene expenditure.

We don't need these jets. The fact this government is reduced to the most ridiculous threats to justify, actually provides the most striking support. I mean, if real, serious threats, do exist, one doesn't need to invent and exaggerate straight away, denoting NO real world rationalization. The Conservatives have been downright insulting, the way they have tried to "sell" this aircraft.

Canada does need a replacement aircraft. The cost of any replacement will be high, Canadians will accept that. What is unacceptable is a plane which goes well beyond our needs, that reeks of appeasing the Americans, accompanied by a healthy dose of juvenile testosterone. Canada can't afford trying to impress others, we need a plane that does the job required, nothing more, nothing less. Canada isn't a superpower, and if the Russians are coming, you can bet our 60 planes won't hold off jack squat in the final analysis. Never mind the fact we now conduct joint military operations with the Russians, and they will probably have some status within NATO before this albatross hits the runway. If not the Russians, who? Muslim extremists, is this the best way to counter a threat? Are the Chinese suddenly going to need "living space", only to be deterred by a small amount of fancy aircraft? Come the %%#@ on, let's start with a real conversation and act accordingly, rather than imagined threats.

This is big, big bucks people, enough money that it could bring about fundamental change, if allocated elsewhere. Money that could be used for real threats to Canadian sovereignty, real needs, so enough of this flippant "stand up for Canada" blind patriotism that supports this plane, with LITTLE real inspection. You don't support the military, if you question the expenditure, the classic wedge. You'll note, the only institutional support comes from those with a direct self interest, there is little third party validation.

The cost of this F35 demands we look elsewhere for better value. The fact we already see evidence of downplaying cost, years before actual delivery, should alarm everyone. I am more convinced than ever, this plane purchase will haunt Canada for a generation.