Stephen Harper intervenes in purchase of new missiles: Source

Prime Minister Stephen Harper settled a dispute between Treasury Board and the Defence Department to approve an $800-million, sole-source purchase of next-generation Sea Sparrow missiles for the Royal Canadian Navy’s aging frigates, sources familiar with the situation say.

The decision was taken early this week following a written request earlier this month by three ministers — Industry Minister James Moore, Defence Minister Rob Nicholson and Public Works Minister Diane Finley — that won out over the objections of Treasury Board president Tony Clement, sources say.

The Sea Sparrow is built by U.S.-based Raytheon. The next-generation version, the Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile, is distinct from the existing, older version in that it is “smart,” and can be guided while in flight.

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