II. SUPERSONIC ALL-WEATHER INTERCEPTOR AIRCRAFT - CF105
4. The Minister of National Defence said that the CF100, designed in 1947 and now in operational service, was an effective weapon against piston-engined bombers and against existing turbo-prop bombers. By 1958, it was estimated, the enemy would have turbo-jet bombers, which the CF100 could not adequately engage. The preparation of plans for a new type all-weather fighter was therefore urgent, but no western country had this problem in hand. The RCAF had studied the matter carefully in consultation with A.V. Roe Canada Ltd., and was confident that an aircraft could be produced to meet the new requirements. He therefore recommended that a replacement for the CF100 be developed; the new aircraft to be powered with the most suitable engines available.
An explanatory memorandum had been circulated.
(Minister's memorandum, November 30, 1953, "Supersonic all-weather interceptor aircraft -- CF105 for the RCAF" -- Document D49-53)?
5. In the course of discussion the following points emerged:
(a) The proposed development would not duplicate work in the United Kingdom or the United States and would be a contribution to common fighter defences.
(b) Funds for the proposed development programme would be found within the defence budget.
(c) Resources devoted to development work for the CF105 might have to be discarded as a result of new development programmes elsewhere, or a substantial change in the enemy threat; meanwhile, however, work on this form of fighter defence could be considered as risk insurance.
6. The Committee, after further discussion, recommended that approval be given for a development programme for the CF105 at a total estimated cost of $26,925,000.
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