Submarine in the Water

As a old time submariner with experience in diesel-electric boats, I’m more than a little bit worried by the sudden motivation to get these boats operational.. To begin with I have no faith in our present government and in particular with Peter MacKay the Minister of Defense. MacKay is under heavy pressure and a great deal of criticism from the debacle over the purchase of new jets. The huge cost overruns for both the jets and the submarines. Lets not forget his use of SAR helicopters for personal use. My concern, is he pushing the Navy hard to get the HMCS Windsor in the water and operational ASAP. His real concern is not the boat but his own public image and difficult position. The danger,  if this boat is not completely prepared for sea, and more importantly are the crew properly trained and prepared. There has been talk of a shortage of experienced submariners. Indeed, almost none have been at sea aboard a submarine for approx four years. An experienced crew is essential if the boat is to operate safely above and under water. I’m not sure the necessary experience is available at this time. I hope and pray we do not end up with a submarine disaster,  because Peter MacKay needed something to deflect current criticism.
Cheers and keep reading.