I'd also like to talk briefly about Arctic sovereignty. It's one of the pillars of the Canada First Defence Strategy. We consider it quite important.
The F-35 has one engine, while other fighter jets, such as the Super Hornet, have two. A number of experts agree that operations conducted in the Arctic with a single-engine aircraft are riskier for pilots if there is engine failure. Rescue operations take longer in the Arctic in the event of a mechanical problem. Given the temperatures, it's very risky for our pilots. Although the reliability of the engine is better, there is still only one and the risks theoretically remain higher.
Also, the F-35s can only cover 2,220 kilometres before refuelling, whereas the CF-18s can fly 3,700 kilometres. We've also heard that adjustments were needed, that the F-35 communication systems won't be operational when they start being used in the Arctic and that the landing strips are too short.
What's your opinion about this? What do you think about the operational capacity of the F-35s in the Arctic?