Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for recognizing me.
Minister, having listened to the witnesses, it has become clear that the C-17 purchase was not only strategic but also played a transitional role by replacing the Hercules tactical aircraft which are now outdated. Unfortunately, over the past 10 years the military air fleet has been drastically cut; one might even say that it is vulnerable.
My question is quite straightforward, and you've already broached it. Are we getting a good deal by purchasing these C-17s? You've made comparisons. I'd like to give you the opportunity to demonstrate that the purchase of C-17s is a good deal for the country. It's been demonstrated that from a tactical standpoint, the practice of leasing makes us dependant on foreign powers, and that in a crisis situation, it may be impossible for us to get our hands on any planes. Nevertheless, from a financial standpoint, because at the end of the day we're talking about taxpayers' money, is this a good deal?