Originally Posted by
Navaleye
Having someone from an aviation background as the new 1SL is a big step forward. All we need now is some more aircraft.
For many years the problem with VSO's in the Senior Service has been their inability to put the right people in place to fight the peacetime battle. Skill as an aviator, driver of war canoes above or below the surface of the sea and outstanding leadership are not, broadly, of much use in Whitehall and Westminster. Navy needs to prioritise ability as a MoD warrior. The ability to make the case for sea power, to take the battle to politicians and the Treasury should be a pre-requisite for promotion, in all branches.
I have no idea whether Ben Key can do this or not, but to me he will have been successful if he succeeds on restoring some balance to the surface fleet whilst maintains or increasing both mass and sustainment capability. The current PM appears to see the need for Global Britain to be supported by more ships, but that has not yet got beyond fine words.
N