Originally Posted by WE Branch Fanatic
If you seriously think that the USN would not be on station with a large number of AD assets during a hot period with Iran then you are, with respect, not being realistic.
Will they be able to provide continuous CAP? If not, will the USN fighters be able to reach our task group faster than the hostile ones? I am assuming that UK forces operate as a discrete group, possibly responsible for a separate area within the theatre.
What if the solution to a crisis isn't just dropping bombs, but things like mine clearance? Just a few hostile aircraft could cause mayhem.
I do appreciate you concern WEBF, it's just a fact that our allies will cover our shortfall for a while, just as we have covered others in the past (mine sweeping being a prime example).
Whilst we have no airborne AD umbrella, I would suggest that it's safe to say that the RN would not operate seperate from a larger task group if Int suggested a possible air attack. Typhoon is the way to go WEBF, 2 engines, great radar and a whole lot easier to fly and therefore fight with than the SHAR. Let it happen matey, the FAA has legs in it yet and they'll be stretching them soon enough.
Jackonicko,
you will NEVER convince a Navy mate that AD a/c are not essential 24/7. The fact that we are on page 85 proves that, surely!!