What if everything you thought you knew about the Avro Arrow’s cancellation was only half the story?

In Episode 20 of The Rum Ration, we revisit Canada’s most controversial Cold War decision—but this time, through a different lens. Dr. Sean Maloney, military historian and Cold War expert, joins us to dig into the lesser-known truths behind the so-called “Arrow good, BOMARC bad” narrative.

From classified weapons systems and Cold War strategy to misunderstood doctrines and public myths, Dr. Maloney dismantles the emotional nationalism surrounding the Arrow and reveals the BOMARC missile’s surprising sophistication.

This episode builds directly on Episode 18 and invites listeners to stop romanticizing and start contextualizing.

Was the Arrow’s end a betrayal of innovation or a strategic pivot? Was BOMARC obsolete—or misunderstood?

Dive in and find out why the real story isn’t about a plane, but about perception, deterrence, and Canada’s evolving place in a dangerous world.

Links to Dr. Sean Maloney's articles in the RCAF Journal:

https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/corporate/reports-publications/royal-canadian-air-force-journal/2014-vol3-iss3-06-secrets-of-the-bomarc.

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