Originally Posted by WE Branch Fanatic
We need to start cutting steel and doing the hundreds/thousands of other things that need to be done - much of this will use the same technology as the Type 45 Destroyer.
Surely getting the construction of the hull modules should start NOW, why do the Government insist that every decision about the outfitting (CTOL vs STOVL for instance) before work can start?
Yes we do but then we are comitted to the programme and Brown can't cut it to save money at a later date. I will be very surprised if CV ever see water. The RN will probably end up as a flotilla of Type 45's, 3 ssk(n), some minehunters, 3 survey vessels, 4 patrol boats and the amphib fleet. As sea power will be seen as irrelevant in a modern world and not fitting with Brown Labour world view. I think the only thing likley to save them is them being built in the New Prime Ministers backyard.