QUESTION PERIOD — National Defence
Aircraft Procurement
December 5, 2023
My question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate. On November 21, I asked you about the government’s plan to award a major $10-billion contract to Boeing to replace the CP-140 Aurora maritime patrol aircraft. You replied at that time, and I quote, “I have been informed that a final decision is yet to be made.” However, on November 30, nine days later, the government announced with great fanfare that it had signed a $10-billion contract with Boeing, thereby ruling out the Canadian company Bombardier.
The President and CEO of Bombardier, Mr. Martel, said on the Cogeco network this morning that his company could have submitted a more cost-effective, less polluting, state-of-the-art proposal if it had at least been allowed to compete.
Once again, leader, how do you justify the fact that your government refused to give a Canadian company the opportunity to even bid on the contract?
Thank you for the question. As I said recently, I fully understand Bombardier’s disappointment. It is an important company in my home region, Quebec. I understand the frustration, and I was anticipating your question, which is entirely valid.
Based on the information I have, Boeing’s Poseidon is the only aircraft currently available that meets all operational requirements. This is a fundamentally important criterion for equipping our Armed Forces. If time permits, I would like to emphasize the economic benefits of this contract for Canadians, notwithstanding the fact that it was awarded to Boeing rather than Bombardier.
We shall see if you anticipated the next question.
Can you confirm whether the government has changed the delivery date from 2031-32 to 2026-27?
I am unable to confirm the exact date, and I did not anticipate that question.
I always stress how important it is for the Armed Forces to have equipment that is proven and adequate, according to the requirements provided to the government by the Armed Forces. The Poseidon meets all these criteria.
