The threat to Canada's economy and actual existence as a sovereign nation from the Trump government is real. He wants Canada and all its riches.

Trump has broken Canada's trust as well as that of other allies around the world. Europe has seen the loss of the U.S. protection under NATO as a realization that they must stand on their own feet and act alone to protect Europe. Canada must do the same. To fight against Trump's tariffs, Canadians are buying Canadian products. This must apply to defence purchases also. 

Canada cannot have its most important equipment such as fighter jets and maritime patrol aircraft made in the U.S. where they control the supply chains for repair parts, control all software and firmware changes and dictate how we can or cannot use their capabilities. The U.S. F-35 fighter purchase should be cancelled as well as the U.S. P-8 surveillance aircraft purchase.

The F-35 should be replaced by the Swedish Gripen E fighter, which was a competitor, and which can be built in Canada. Additionally, this aircraft can land on the existing airstrips up north and use the existing hangars. Sweden is a trusted NATO partner unlike the U.S. and uses the same fighter to take on Russia in the north.

The US P-8 aircraft can be replaced by the Canadian-built and equipped competitor with its Canadian supply chain. The building of these aircraft in Canada will employ thousands of skilled workers and expand our economy. This supports Canadian companies and Canadian workers. Why should Canadians send more than $30 billion to Trump? Call your member of Parliament and demand Canada immediately cancel these programs.

Robin Allen

Saanich