TD. Having a look at the QF announcement on the ASX, they have, indeed, firmed up their options to the tune of 8 additional aircraft + 4 A332's however, in reading the statement, they have "Negotiated an attractive package to firm up an additional 8 A380's". I still think that they have done a deal with Airbus to make this announcement...nothing like good publicity for Airbus when it needs it! On the other hand, perhaps the "negotiated" bit was for the A332's. (maybe they were free!)
The statement also goes on about "...protection against any further delays...and slide rights in the event of changed circumstances." I don't quite see how ordering more will protect against further delays, unless this statement is about delay compensation.