"attack on the UK homeland is no longer conceivable because our potential enemies just do not have the reach"
Tell that to the WTC workers.
"The Army would absorb all Special Forces and helicopter operations"
Yeah, give the army Pumas, Chinooks, Merlins & Seakings, I'm sure they'd get 4 different types operational in no time, just like they've done with the Apache???
Please remind us where and who instructs the RN & Army's pilots? RAF Shawbury & RAF Linton-on-Ouse is it not Mr Collins?
"The emphasis would be on the ability to launch from aircraft carriers and limited overseas bases as opposed to high-tech interceptors for a war - the Cold War - that is long over."
Try intercepting hijacked airliners over the UK with RN strike aircraft based on a carrier in the Gulf.
What planet is this guy living on?