One would also argue that actually acquiring modern effective equipment is also a cost of doing business when one has a Military. But most Canadians Politicians seem to view it as economic stimulus
FTFY.
Multi-billion dollar procurement of operational kit is essential to a modern military. Most in the political class want that money spent in Canada to curry favour, votes, or stimulate stagnant economic sectors.
It's not a matter of "Look at how this is improving our ability to maintain National Security or project Foreign Policy influence" but "This project is turning X billion dollars into X Thousand jobs in this community and helping ensure Canada is competitive on the global market blah, blah, blah..."
There's a reason they announce projects at GDLS in London or Irving in NS. It's not about the product or capability; it's about the production and the follow on votes.
Do I like it? Fuck no. Do I understand the theatrics? Hell yes.
@Eye In The Sky I can see the glint coming off the Axe you have to grind with this project moving forward. Do I think it's the hill to die on? Not personally, but you do you. You don't have to put a pair of DEUs through the same kind O QC you do with Flight Gear. Ball caps should be a slam dunk, but if they're still dragging ass, that's a huge question mark.
I would posit that we as a CAF assume that if we did away with "buttons and bows" that we would see further efficiencies or funding towards operational projects. Until our procurement is no longer a slush fund for votes, I don't share that same optimism.
All I see in this is a shining beacon of hope I will no longer bake like a meatloaf on parade, in a poorly designed and fitted lounge suit, to ride out the tail end of my time in uniform.