Dear editor,
The untendered purchase of 65 F-35 fighter jets is a waste of potentially $16 billion tax dollars, about $550 for each Canadian citizen.
The F-35’s deficiencies are many. It’s a one engine, single seat aircraft with limited range, contrary to department of defence specifications. What is needed are Navy and Coast Guard patrol vessels with reinforced ice breaking hulls, new generation long range patrol and surveillance air craft and 21st century search and rescue helicopters to patrol our three coasts.
The F-35 will not fill any of Canada’s defence security needs but is instead an expensive ego trip for Defence Minister Peter Mackay.
I urge the voters in Wild Rose to contact MP Blake Richards and have him explain why the federal government is wasting tax dollars on this ‘Flying White Elephant.’
Sincerely,
Leo D Puerzer, Beiseker
