A more authoritative figure for future manning is around 45,000 down from around 52,000. In fact we were due in any case to fall to around 48,000 so the extra will be very small and easily found through natural wastage. Of course the re-balancing exercise means some trades and branches will fall further (FJ Navs?) and some will remain in short supply (all support staff) to meet the requirements of an Expeditionary Air Force.
Stick with it guys - its gonna still be great fun
