Kitbag
Damn it- you managed to pose some pertinent points whilst I was one-finger typing. Slow down!
I see your points, but wouldn't the fact that Typhoon was always slated as having a AG capability have mandated the requirements from the outset? The EAP (is that correct?) first flew in 1986, so I would hope that 21 years later it is aerodynamically proven. Mind you, given our proven inability to procure what we need, I'm less sure.
If (as I believe) we're currently expending all our energies in turning Typhoon into an AG platform, we're already skewing an immature programme in a slightly different strategic direction. I don't see how this decision couldn't have been taken some time ago?
You're right, the project contracts must be an absolute nightmare, but impossible? i hope not.
As always, standing by for correction!