Just saw an interview with Bill Graham (Minister of Defence) in which he (without saying the words) admits that the US played a role in Canada's idea to purchase the subs. Seems that the US got it in their heads that if a great friend with whom "war games" are often played (ie Canada) was to buy good ole fashioned but capable diesel subs much like those used by North Korea, China, etc. it would make training on combating these subs more effective...enter Canada!...Graham said it was for the purpose of Counter-Drugs, surveilance, and sovernty...the reporter pointed out that these were the reasons for creating the Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels, keeping the Sea Kings, and refitting the Halifax Class Frigates. Soooooooo.....make up our minds Mr. Graham...do we really need these subs in the CDN Navy? I mean..its been over 60 yrs since an enemy sub has crept into the Bay of Fundy, or the Gulf of St. Lawrence......Slainte!