As I have mentioned before, the capability of Civvy SAR is dictated by the requirements laid down by the MCA/DfT. If they wanted NVG, 2nd Standby crews, more aircraft, more training etc etc, they would ask for it and get it. This time around it seems(?) that the MOD has had a greater input into the Civvy SAR contract. This might have two effects. One, the new SAR contract was bid to a higher specification which might convert to a better capability,(yes better aircraft and kit but probably the same training budget (45hours), No NVG, etc etc). Two, the MOD get an inside look into the way Civvy SAR works.
Now if the MOD are wanting to hang onto SAR as Crab has been reliably(?) informed, but are still going to have to save money, then what shape is harmonisation going to take? Perhaps the MOD will have the aircraft provided by contractors (2 per base), engineering provided by contractors, no 2nd Standby crew/aircraft, reduced training budget and reduced back up infrastructure. In other words, realigning military SAR closer to civillian (although still 24/7/365 all weather SAR, overland if deemed necessary).
The issue here is who decides what the UK SAR capability should be - the Rolls Royce(?) the RAF/RN provides or the Ford Transit(?) civillian option. Now looking at the military budget cuts of late, which way do you think this is going to go? After all, a Ford Transit does pretty much the same as a Rolls Royce albeit without the looks and expensive running costs.