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Deep Dive: The Defender (2013)

Film Lens

The Defender
The documentary focuses on Bob Deert, the only designer and builder of fighter aircraft in Canada, as he works on his latest project, the Defender, in Carmen, Manitoba. Deert believes that this new fighter aircraft could significantly impact modern warfare, claiming that 5,000 of these planes could stop a Russian armored drive into Europe. The film details the design features of the Defender, including its unique centerline shooting capability, which allows for more accurate targeting without the complications of wing-mounted ordinance. Despite the high costs associated with existing military aircraft like the F-18 Hornet, which Canada purchased for $5 billion, Deert argues that the Defender could be produced at a fraction of the cost. He mentions that for the price of 135 F-18s, the Canadian Forces could acquire 15,000 Defenders. The documentary also shows Deert's collaboration with Chris Ball from Bristol Aerospace, as they work to prove the Defender's capabilities through practical tests.

Why Watch

  • See how Bob Deert designs a revolutionary fighter aircraft.
  • Find out why the Defender could change modern warfare.
  • Meet Chris Ball, the electronics expert behind the project.

Did You Know

Bob Deert claims 5,000 Defenders could stop a Russian armored drive.
The Canadian Forces spent $5 billion on a handful of F-18s.
Deert plans to sell the Defender for 900 times less than the F-18.
For the cost of 135 F-18s, Canada could buy 15,000 Defenders.

Perfect For

Aerospace enthusiastsMilitary technology fansCanadian defense policy followers