WZ662 - absolutely right fella, only problem is getting someone at DPA to jump up and down enough to tell them. Airbus will build the aircraft very, very well to the contract specification as they interpret it. It can only be hoped that DPA will fight to ensure that our interpretation is the same.
IMO Airbus will be missing a trick if they build a compromise solution. There is a market out there to be tapped, especially with the demise of the C17 line and the ridiculous money LM want to improve C130J capability. The RAF will effectively be the lead customer (not the first, but will be looking to use the thing on operations sooner and at greater flying rates than anyone else) and our experiences and feedback will sell the thing around the World. God, I hope we haven't compromised too much as a result of our multin-national contract.