Widger,
Firstly I'll reiterate that I'm a strong supporter of carrier aviation and I particularly support your initiative to LET THIS THREAD DIE!!!!!!!!!
However, I felt I must respond to some of your comments. Actually, the first Brit troops on the ground in Iraq didn't go ashore at Al Faw. Other things were happening. However, I'd certainly acknowledge how important the amphib assault was although it was not the main effort of the ground offensive. As far as C-17 v sea lift, we clearly need both as they each compliment one another. And if you don't think the RAF are procuring more AAR, heavy lift and ISTAR you need to check your facts. As far as SH goes, Land is now Customer 2 for this and it is interesting that SH momentum has reduced since they took the lead.
As far as CAS goes however I would argue that we (and I include FAA in this equation) currently have quite a robust capability and a lot of experience in the role. Now, I'm not Typhoon's greatest fan, but you are also incorrect to suggest that intimate that Typhoon is unable to conduct CAS or strike. Once the Tranche 2/3 standard is matured over the next few years, it will actually be capable of carrying a wider range of A-G weaponry than JCA. And for the last time, TYPHOON HAS A GUN AND IS ABLE TO STRAFE!!!!!!!!! Yes the jet was procured in the Cold War, but so was T45 (which some (Note not I!) would argue is also a single role AD asset like Typhoon). The guys that fly Typhoon are exceptionally confident that it will rapidly mature into a highly capable swing/dual role asset. Like F-35, Typhoon's capabilities also have considerable application in a ISR role. CVF and F-35 will certainly not make it redundant for a variety of reasons. And let's not forget that F-35 will lack many capabilities when it initially enters service in 201?.
F-35 and Typhoon will complement one another and the sooner we stop willy waving and trying to undermine one another and instead concentrate on building doctrine combining the best attributes of each, the better. In my experience, I firmly believe that both the RN and the RAF have good vision and work together well. If anything, it is most certainly the Army who lag in this respect by constantly arguing that 'Purple should be Khaki', and I can give many, many examples of that.
Now, let's let this thread die!!!!!
Regards,
MM