Originally Posted by
MPN11
No argument about 'greatest deterrent effect', but the other capabilities are required and used on a regular basis.
Exactly. If we look back at the last decade (because the MoD are clearly unable to accurately forecast, ref successive SDSR's) the RAF have probably been the most active. No doubt that this is likely to continue as we reject soldiers on the ground.
That being the case, I have repeatedly asked why are we retiring our most capable attack and recce fast jet the GR4 ?.
It is also relatively cheap to operate due to the RTP programme. How can it not be possible to maintain a couple of squadrond while a decision is taken on the future F35 acquisition, one based on affordability as well as capabilities.
I am sure people will shoot me down saying that it is old and needs to be retired. To that my response is - are the B52 and A10. The former may well be re-engined and the latter re-winged.