I love the F-35 as much as the next man, but let's not go crazy. The F-35 is still a tactical fighter and will still require loads of tanker support just as our current F/A-18 and Super Hornet tactical fighters do.
Not saying that it will never require it, but it does significantly outrange the F-16/18 that is replacing so it will require it less often than the current F-16/18s do.
agreed, another point the undereducated detractors of the F35c don't get
"If" is the big question. Many here doubt the Liberal claims that the CF-18 can't last for a few more years. They have been in office for less than a year and before that, while in opposition, they saw no need for immediate replacement. If this were in fact true then one question would be what's the difference in obtaining IOC between a F-35 and SH/Growler for the RCAF assuming delivery times are similar. This is the same BS that left the RCAF with two medium lift helicopters, the EH101 for SAR and the CH-148 (still not meeting specs and only 6 out of 28 delivered), a decision solely to save liberal face.
Missing in all of the discussion in the Canadian Press about this issue is the reaction to this in the United States. Obama is out of office in a little over seven months and neither President Clinton, President Trump or the new US Congress is going to put up with Junior's fecklessness when it comes to the defense of the North American continent. Canada already refuses to participate in missile defense and planners must consider the possibility of a joint bomber and cruise missile attack from a potential enemy. The mood in the US has changed and Canada as yet doesn't realize it.
You are totally out of touch with the current mood in the United States. The people that matter can find Canada on the map and they are no longer willing to spend money to protect nations that aren't willing to expend the resources to do so themselves. The Congress is more important in these matters than the Pentagon and their views will prevail. The fact that you are not aware of the missile defense debate in the United States is an indication of just how out of touch you are. Trump is a manifestation of a deep anger in the United States that touches both political parties and Canada ignores it at its peril.
Let's not let this get out of hand, what do you say? Maybe move this discussion to the relevant thread, and please remain civil.
he's in for a shock then - fleet buyers expect and will get manuf rights for components - there's enough anger already about the amount of work canada has secured without buying in. not only the original 8 ciustomers - but the 3 sitting on the outside want and will expect industry benefits
Perhaps contract award is not 100% linked to airframes purchased for subcontractors but also linked to quality of the product produced
Yes, I think your comment is correct. LM still needs quality and competitive subcontractors which may require continuing business with some non F-35 customer countries. However, I fully expect a significant decline for Canada's aerospace sector if Canada does not buy the F-35.
LM gave them part of it's workshare just as they did to Japan.