Political Science Publications
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-31-2020
Journal
London Free Press
Abstract
The article discusses the Canadian government's consideration of replacing its aging CF-18 fleet with new fighter jets, evaluating options such as Lockheed Martin's F-35 and Boeing's Super Hornet. The F-35 is criticized for being a single-engine aircraft, which poses risks for Arctic patrols and has faced issues with reliability, maintenance, and cost. In contrast, the Super Hornet is presented as a more suitable option due to its twin-engine design, economic benefits, and better alignment with Canada's defense needs. The article advocates for the purchase of the Super Hornet, highlighting its advantages in terms of maintenance cost savings and economic benefits for Canadian companies. It also addresses the procurement process, noting the withdrawal of Airbus and Dassault from the competition and the influence of U.S. demands on Canada's procurement rules. Ultimately, the article argues for a pragmatic approach to selecting a fighter jet that meets Canada's operational and economic requirements.
Notes
First published in London Free Press.