Safetypee - I was using the EAP as an example of how fast you might be able to move from a design idea to first flight - completing it to full operational standard is another kettle of fish but whatever we think it looks like a minimum 10 year programme - over which time The RAF/RN will have to make do with 48 F-35's and upgraded Typhoons - with the possibility of some small numbers of new Typhoons to keep BAE ticking over
The leaks so far indicate to me that what is driving future orders is preserving the industrial base rather than the needs of the military