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Federal government not handling jet purchase properly

Local reader feels federal government is giving Canadian pilots second-rate equipment...
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The Pipestone Flyer

 

Dear editor,

Politicians are great at telling Canadians they “want” to do what is best for Canadians.

Who will be flying the jets to protect Canadians? Or complete missions to preserve wherever they are needed? Sure not the politicians!

Pilots from the Canadian armed forces will be putting their lives on the line in the planes the government (Canadians) will pay for. I want the best for the best. The pilots that fly them evaluate them, not desk job politicians who expect pilots to fly planes our allies do not feel confident enough to fly themselves. They want a pilot flying a plane they know has their back in a pinch.

Politicians are great at leading by example, as long as there is someone out front taking the heat. The defense minister knows the process. They need the best equipment so they have a tactical advantage over the enemy. They would not go to a gunfight with a knife, not if their lives were on the line.

The allies have evaluated the F-35 and put it through rigorous tests to ensure it meets the needs of what the pilots will be laying their lives on the line for.

Mechanics, techs, weapons experts etc. have gone over the F-35 with a fine-tooth comb. Canadian pilots and ground crews are no different; they want the best for the best.

So politicians need to get with the program. We are all trusting these folks with our lives. We deserve the best. This is just plain, common sense.

Rick Haney, Millet