Two AMRAAMs is better than none - which of course is what the GR9 will have.
Yesterday,
Invincible put to sea for a long planned deployment, called MARSTRIKE 05.
MARSTRIKE 05 - RN page
The long-planned series of exercises, entitled MARSTRIKE 05, is designed to demonstrate Britain’s ability to deploy, operate and sustain a maritime strike force and to reinforce the Government’s commitment to the stability and security of the Mediterranean and Gulf regions.
A self contained task group, with no US air defence? Might need Sea Harriers then.........
Invincible’s aircraft will, at various times include Sea Harrier FA2s from 801 Naval Air Squadron (NAS), Harrier GR7 strike aircraft from No. 4 (AC) Squadron RAF, and three Sea King airborne early warning helicopters of B Flight, 849 NAS. The aircraft will join the ship at sea.
Is this an admission that the Sea Harrier really is needed for some of the types of operation a CVS may be used for in the next few years?
Also see
here.
Invincible will eventually carry up to 28 aircraft – a mix of Royal Navy and RAF Harriers and helicopters...
Comments please......