Commenter John Wunderlich picked up on the news that Boeing was planning to cancel production of the C-17. Well, there's a report now that Boeing has in fact told suppliers to cease work on uncommitted aircraft.
The Canadian government is interested in buying four C-17s from Boeing to fill a hole in the country's strategic airlift capabilities and we have officially told Boeing we are interested but negotiations to actually buy some of these things are just now under way.
As I'm technically on holiday this week, I will not be placing any calls to DND or to Public Works to see how, if it all, this latest move by Boeing may affect Canada's ability to buy C-17s.
I can pass on some speculation that I've heard over the last few months from different military and government sources, that being that Canada might be able to snag at least two C-17s that are right now in production and destined for service with the U.S. But beyond that, I don't what else this might mean.
If you happen to be reading this and work for DND or Public Works, feel free to volunteer your opinion your below 🙂
“If you happen to be reading this and work for DND or Public Works, feel free to volunteer your opinion your below :)”
It was certainly worth a try. 🙂
David, I heard that Bush and the Republicans were trying to cancel C-17 purchases. Could the lack of interest from the American government be the cause for shutting down their production?
Canada's possible purchase of four (albeit great for us) would not amount to much in keeping a line operational.