Senator Gold: I’m not sure I know fully what the question is. It is true that the P-8A Poseidon is the only readily available military with off-the-shelf capability; however, there has not been a final decision yet. The issuance of a letter of request itself does not commit Canada.

The decision to accept or decline the offer detailed in the letter of acceptance will be based on the capability offered in the matter, availability, pricing and the benefits.

[Translation]