Time is running out for a CF-18 replacement buy

Time is running out for executing Canada's CF-18 replacement.

The F-35 is unlikely to produce a known capability, cost or arrival date.

Pushing the CF-18 past 2020 can only be seen as a poor decision when one looks into the details that involve CF-18 refurbishment.

The chart below shows the relationship between ordering, delivery, full operational capability of a replacement and retirement of the CF-18. It is a steady and non-rushed pace.It shows 80 aircraft because that is probably what Canada needs when looking at all of its fighter taskings.

Initial operating capability (IOC) of Canada's first squadron to get new fighter aircraft could possibly happen in 2016 if action is taken now.

If procurement of a replacement is started now, the CF-18 can be retired in a low risk manner. Otherwise; all bets are off the table.

With a current political leadership that claims the F-35 is the way to go, the only possible outcome is complete upheaval of the fighter capability for Canada.

Buy now, or start parking CF-18s in 2020.