Originally Posted by
andrewn
I think its even simpler than that. The decision to procure Poseidon OTS, off the back of an existing USN order, essentially meant the lead time between order and delivery was much shorter than would typically be the case, if we'd had a long winded procurement, bespoke purchase, etc.
Then factor in the time to firm up a basing decision, draw up requirements, let the contracts, start building, and you end up where we are today.
Yes, agreed, perfectly valid points and likely. Nevertheless, the approval to commit funding would not (should not) be granted until all the ducks are lined up. The cunning procurement strategy for the aircraft would have to be accompanied by a viable plan on how to put them to use and support them. Otherwise, no Technical and Financial Approval (a technical function) or Financial Endorsement (a financial function). Someone (God -1) has agreed this timing quite some time ago and decided to live with any hassle. Get the contract let in case Jeremy gets in!