[War] US: The Old Alliance

[John Penta]

"The Old Alliance"
SECDEF Julius Abbot
USA
=============
<Washington>

Ensconced back in Washington as his boss fought diplomatic battles in
Siberia (well, Vladivostok was cold enough), and with his State
Department colleague alongside POTUS, Julius Abbot was looking over
the morning reports from US military commands around the world.

Canada rose to the top of their list...well, instantly.

The new Canadian rifle program posed a threat to the US-UK
Next-Generation Rifle project...Indeed, the project's central goal was
a NATO-standard rifle, or as close as they could get. In addition, the
idea of Canadian Virginia-class subs had raised eyebrows at the
Pentagon.

However, the note he was writing would leave aside the second topic,
instead focusing on the first.
---
Fr: Abbot, SECDEF
To: Ansdale, MND Ottawa
[Wolfe encryption]

Minister Ansdale,

    I saw the Globe and Mail today. Have kicked your request on the
subs to the White House. President Williams will start the decision
process when he returns from Vladivostok. Navy says they would cost
$2.17 Billion per unit - no lower.

    I must express my department's confusion in regards to your new
rifle project. Canada, like all NATO members, has had a standing
invitation to join in the Anglo-American Next Generation Rifle
project. Given the benefits of a common infantry weapon to Canadian
logistics and procurement, we wonder as to the wisdom of a competing
rifle in NATO service, particularly having two different rifles in
North American defense.

    Finally, I welcome your government's recommitment to the F-35.
Your decision will help costs for the entire F35 team, and contribute
greatly to improved North American air defense.

   Allow me to extend, Minister, my continued assurance of my highest regards.

   Iulius Abbot
   Secretary of Defense
---
Actions:
1. Quietly leak concern from "Senior Pentagon Sources" as to the new
Canadian Rifle project and its effect on North American defense.
2. Approve of the Canuck F35 buys.
3. Kick the Canadian VA class SSN buy request upstairs.