TBSG,
My dear chap, sadly you have missed the slant to this thread. Yes the majority of us wholeheartedly agree that the BRH capability should concentrate on its Find function to contribute to the ISTAR/C4ISR plan.
Equally so, lift should be provided by the best capability for both medium and heavy lift to rectify the findings of the NAO report.
One cannot ignore the political implications to a military decision, which sadly sees your previous OA and military judgement weighted against.
I am with you totally, if I was an SH bloke I would want more lift than an NH 90. If I was a recce mate then I would want less RCS, visual acuity and bodged sights and sensor suite than the 'role' equipment of a bolt on NH 90 option.
However, when things in the treasury are that bad and there are far greater forces at work than Fort Halsteads/DSTLs OA then NH 90 will provide the best compromise. What you AAC chappies have to do is stop fighting the whole Jointery bit and ensure that you are represented and informed on a truly purple way forward.
Sadly, if not then you will be quietly, but effectively just sidelined out of the debate and remember you only have a 1 star at the top of your tribal tree (although new JHC Comd is AAC 2 star, he must play the Joint 'best practices' card not only for credability, but also for the continuance of his career|!) the other 2 Services can continue to progress forward (albeit at a slower pace) even with the AAC dragging its heals in a bid to save its light blue beret and cap badge.