And the spin goes on!

There is more news on the F35 front and none of it is good, unless you believe everything the government tells you.

News point one:  The Defense Department in the US has announced more delays and problems with the F35 prototypes.  Seems that vibration and issues with the power plant and head mounts are the latest problems.  This means further delays to the program and rising costs.  And just in case you think these are minor issues, let's see what the official report says:  

Severe shaking This happens during high-speed maneuvers and may accelerate wear and tear on the plane.   

Helmet system  The display that shows the pilot data from radar and electronic warfare systems has problems with its night vision.   

Electrical power  The system has failed or needed replacement 16 times. If it failed in flight, the plane would lose much of its electronics, the pilot's main oxygen supply and its cockpit pressurization.

I know what you are thinking... these are problems inherent in the development of a new aircraft.  May I remind you that earlier this year, Fantino and the MIA-Minister Peter McKay (I hope he hasn't gone fishing again.) maintained that the F35 was the best aircraft for the RCAF, when the aircraft is still being developed and the RCAF has not yet created a Statement of Requirement.

News point two.  Not-quite-a-Minister Julian Fantino has suggested that we may not buy all the 65 planes that he has always maintained were the right number for the RCAF.    Even though the RCAF brass still says they need 65, is it possible that Fantino's revision is due to rising prices for the aircraft?

News point three:  Fantino has told us that the delays mentioned in point one will result in he may have to extend the life of the F18s.  What will that cost Julian?  And why is there not an option to abandon the F35 and move to the F18 Super Hornet?  The Super Hornet is a proven fighter interceptor, its use will not require Canada to get new air re-fuelers and training and spare pasts will be a fraction of the cost of gearing up for a new aircraft.