andrewn,
It's actually 16 assigned jets, as mentioned in the last Red Arrows BI when the establishment was upped from 13. As for being "mere number plates" I'm sure the personnel on those squadrons really appreciate your attitude. Waddington is a major RAF station, not merely an airfield, and don't forget that the average cold war fighter base in 11 Group had a mere two squadrons with an establishment of 12 a/c each. Then there is the Islander/Defender squadron transferred to the RAF from the AAC, they may well move. Plus as a centre for Protector Ops it will have a LOT of aircrew...