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Old 15th Apr 2004, 08:49
  #6 (permalink)  
Jackonicko
 
Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: Just behind the back of beyond....
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This whole 'reorganisation' looks like 'bending over backwards' in order to accomodate RN sensibilities.

Four nine aircraft squadrons? Why, when numerous studies have shown that the optimum sized unit is 16 aircraft, and that 12 or 13 is a good compromise.

Why should half of those units have RN numberplates (and presumably RN COs, etc.) when the RN will be providing fewer than a quarter of the aircrew? This will artificially constrain the careers and career opportunities of RAF Harrier aircrew, and will give the RN a disproportionate influence and 'apparent' presence within JFH.

If the RN numberplates are so vital, then retain three properly sized squadrons (12 aircraft each) and divide the dark blue one into two flights with two RN numberplates for those flights, as they do in the French Armée de l'Air (you could even save a third RN numberplate for the full sized squadron).
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