In an article in Vanguard Magazine’s December/January edition entitled “Seeking
Alternatives” Lieutenant-General Yvan Blondin, recently appointed commander of
the R.C.A.F, makes the best reasoned case in favour of both procuring the F-35
and in the numbers suggested that Canadian Defence Matters has seen. (note to
the Conservative government, get this guy out there more!)
The whole article is well
worth reading for an understanding of the complexities and the time lines
involved in Air Force procurements. One of the issues highlighted by General Blondin
is that of training requirements. He makes the case for access to training
aircraft with greater capabilities then those currently available as a way of both
reducing the pressure on operational fighters and of being able to meet operational
commitments with smaller numbers of New Generation Fighters.
Essentially Gen. Blondin is
looking for an advanced jet trainer with either organic radar or the
ability to simulate one. While it could be argued that the need to procure such
an aircraft simply adds to the cost of which ever new fighter is procured. it
would be simplistic. The ability to use aircraft which are cheaper to procure,
maintain and fly will eventually save money. The more operational tasks
assigned to these aircraft the more money saved.
This brings us to the
recurring theme of a Snowbirds replacement aircraft which could
also serve as a substitute for the activities of companies such as Top Aces.
The kind of aircraft described by Gen. Blondin would be a valuable addition to
the R.C.A.F. not only for its ability to down load training requirements from
more expensive fighter but for it’s ability to take over some of the other
duties of those fighters. Something like a Hawk 200, or AJT with modern electronics
would fit the bill nicely and still work well for the Snowbirds.
