I have no idea which of the aircraft on offer, if any, would meet Canada's long term air defence needs. That's probably true for most Canadians. It is an inherently complex logistical, technical, economic exercise. 

Which is why - given the billions at stake - Canada's independent oversight agencies should be front and centre in the debate. And, indeed, the PBO and the AG did wade in several years ago on Harper's plan to buy the F35s. They warned government had grossly - quite deliberately no doubt - understated the total cost of ownership. 

I dismiss half the comments here either because they come from rabid anti-Trudeau-ites, or because they have some other axe to grind. Nor can I put much stock in what the authors have to say because the article comes with no declaration they are free of conflicts. 

I'm not convinced government is on the right track here but I'm keeping an open mind until I hear from someone I can trust as authoritative, insightful and independent.