Paz
Neither you nor P+F have told us anything new connected to the gist of this thread but it is obvious that there is a difference of opinion between Chappie and Bob's fiancee and/or her friends; this is understandable. However, many of us believe that this thread is not the time nor the place for such differences to be aired and Chappie has suggested an off-line solution. I suggest that this is seriously considered by both parties, so preventing any inappropriate thread creep/unbecoming slanging matches and allowing the real issues to be discussed - the needless risks faced by our crews in aircraft that should be better protected.
Chappie's actions in this respect speak volumes; her commitment and courage remains immense and an example to us all. I suspect that, whatever her motivation and in spite of any past differences between the two of them, Bob could only be proud of her unflagging desire to improve the protection afforded to his former comrades.
I think most us should now consider the 'family issue' a closed book and would reccommend it is not mentioned again on this thread. PM Chappie if you so wish.
Fair enuff?
On the bunk
To a degree you are correct. However, the problem is that only a few ac will get ESF (and no
Js) - but the ac can't be in 2 places at once and the delays in fitment of ESF are getting longer and longer.
Additionally, the pressure to increase the number of frames in AFG will only build as the fiasco in Helmand unravels and, guess what? We will be back with 'slicks' and inexperienced crews a la 2002/3!!
That is why the pressure on MoD should be maintained so they don't think that everything is 'sweetness and light' just because they have agreed to fit a paltry few ac with ESF sometime in the future.... rather than with the utmost urgency.
Furthermore, ESF is not the panacea for all ills; there are other things that should be fitted which are extremely important to improve the self-protection of both Ks and
Js. ESF is only the tip of the iceberg and, what is more, this issue can be read across to many other fleets.
So let's all help keep the pressure up and not fault-find with eachother? Constructive advice, on the other hand, would be gratefully accepted!