Some critics work themselves into approximately the same mindset about weapon systems. If a requirement, standing alone, cannot be demonstrated as absolute, it must not be a requirement. Nonrequirements should be canceled. That would scrub nearly all of the nation's strategic modernization programs. Other cancellation enthusiasts are eyeing the Advanced Tactical Fighter, the C-l7 airlifter, readiness levels, and force structure.
Armed conflict is less predictable than football.
If combat requirements are figured short, the consequences can be very bad. The answer is probably yes. Canceling weapons in big bunches is not a sensible proposition. It is, however, the approach toward which the nation is drifting. The weapons-cutters think the military's requirements list is bloated and its estimate of danger overstated.