Ottawa Citizen: Canada’s F-35s: Engines not included

[tuvor]

The multi-million dollar F-35 stealth fighter that the Conservatives want to purchase comes with all the accoutrements of a high-tech aircraft — everything, that is, except an engine.

The government will be required to provide engines for the 65 planes to be delivered by U.S. manufacturer Lockheed Martin, according to newly released Defence Department documents.

The proposed F-35 purchase, estimated to cost between $14 billion and $29 billion depending on what figures are used, has been controversial. Opposition parties are calling for a review or cancellation of the program, while the Tories have made it a key part of their defence policy.

The DND documents, which outline answers to questions about the F-35, also note that the stealth fighter could be used in a secondary role for search-and-rescue.

...

http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Canada+Engines+included/4629251/story.html

[CHIMO]

1. Not only the engines

But also the weapons systems! And what else?

F-35 Controversy – Did Conservative Laurie Hawn Admit To Much Higher Jet Fighter Costs?

Last night, Evan Solomon interviewed U.S defence analyst Winslow Wheeler, who asserted that the true cost per plane is likely to be $150-200 million, and that for $75 million you would not be able to get a jet complete with some key components, such as an engine and a weapons system. When that interview ended, Solomon once more questioned Hawn on his government's continued cost assertions; again Hawn maintained that his $75 million figure is correct. However, two things he said make me think otherwise.

http://politicsanditsdiscontents.blogspot.com/2011/04/f-35-controversy-did-conservative.html

[CHIMO]

2. Engines included in F-35 deal, officials insist

OTTAWA—Defence officials have shot down reports that Canada would be responsible for supplying the engines needed for the F-35 fighters.

Documents obtained from the defence department saying the F-35 engines “are provided as gov’t-furnished equipment” prompted questions whether the cost of the engines was included in the $9 billion price tag to buy 65 of the stealth fighters.

But the Conservatives and defence officials moved quickly to quell the questions Sunday, insisting that the purchase price made public all along includes everything needed to operate the aircraft — even the engines.

“The $9 billion overall acquisition cost includes 65 aircraft with engines installed,” the defence department said in a statement.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/976138--engines-included-in-f-35-deal-officials-insist?bn=1

BS. They are blatant untruths. The people on Power & Politics as given in the reference of my earlier post stated that in no way would the US congress allow the planes to be sold at a price lower that the US can purchase them. And their data does not include the engine. As well as other materials.

Who in defence is making that claim. Where is his reference.

Tota;l BS.

[Metric System]

3. Canadians don't care. Nothing sticks to these Cons. It's depressing.