Thank you for your question.
I agree that this is an important matter.
In fact, because of the dollar value associated with procurement, it demands a fair bit of attention from us. I'm quite pleased that we're looking at this subject. As we move forward, finding a way to deliver useful products to the men and women of the Canadian Forces in a very timely fashion, while meeting the needs of the taxpaying public, is a wonderful thing.
I can provide part of the answer, but once again I would defer to these gentlemen when it comes to the negotiating process. That is really their bailiwick.
With respect to ACAN, we set a requirement based on what our needs are and then we go out and have a look at what products are available. If it is found that in fact there is only one product likely to be able to meet our needs, this is when the government is inclined to use ACAN, the advance contract award notice process, so that we can move expeditiously.
All of the defence procurements that were announced are needed urgently in the Canadian Forces, which have tended to use a process that, while fair and equitable, moves quickly.
I have to say that with the arrival this summer of the first C-17, the process from announcement to delivery capability will be almost unprecedented. I am certainly delighted.
I would now ask my friends from PWGSC to respond to the second part of your question.