TORONTO – The Canadian government is reportedly disregarding US warnings that counterfeit military parts from China have been exposed in American fighter jets, transport planes, missiles and other weapons.
A US Congressional investigation during a 14-month span has revealed 1,800 cases (so far) of counterfeit electronic components involving more than a million fake military parts, say published reports.
Canadian military is said to have purchased 17 Hercules transport planes that could be part of the problem.
The US Senate Armed Services Committee said the counterfeit parts are generally from old computers and other “electronic trash” in China, with high potential for failure and possibly “catastrophic” consequences.
Julian Fantino, Canada's associate defense minister told reporters, “At this point in time, other than continuing to be vigilant, we don't have any particular concerns in this country. I have been advised that the checks and balances we have in place in our country are sufficient.”
According to the Congressional investigation, Canada is the third largest trafficker of counterfeit military components from Asia, say reports.