Originally Posted by
Thud_and_Blunder
Nope - that was a completely different goat-cluster. I was Chinooks from 1989 to 1997, which included the period of the Mid Life Update; definitely just the change from Mark 1 to Mark 2.
Basic problem. It was called an 'update' when it was an 'upgrade'. Huge difference, primarily in resources allocated. And then FADEC joined the party, as it was delayed so much it missed the Mk1 boat.
Similar to Mk3. When it was a simple Mk2 follow-on buy, it was basically a minor task. As soon as HQ wanted a split Mk2/3, planning blight should have been declared as there was nobody to take on the task.
No hindsight involved. It's easier to list those who didn't warn senior staff. The 2 Star happened to be the same one as RMPA/Nimrod 2000/MRA4. It's a small world in that part of MoD.
Goat-cluster is harsh on goats.