Originally Posted by
Asturias56
I'm trying to think of a situation where the RAF would need a stand-alone SEAD/DEAD capability when there are only 5 squadrons of fighters in service - and a drizzle of F-35's slowly arriving.
Seems like we're still thinking of a "full service" air force when in fact the UK can't afford anything like that
Has Ms Abbott lent you her abacus?
Typhoon
1 Sqn
2 Sqn
3 Sqn
6 Sqn
9 Sqn
11 Sqn
12 Sqn
Plus 29 Sqn (biggest number of jets), plus 41 Sqn (effectively the OEU with a small number of jets)
So that is 7x FL Sqns and at least a further in reserve as the OCU/OEU.
Lightning
617 Sqn
Plus 207 Sqn (the OCU), plus 17 Sqn (the OEU)
Plus 809 Sqn for the Royal Navy
If I recall correctly, there is an intent to buy 138 F35 in total, which will mean more RAF and RN sqns are to come?