8 aircraft, I thought it was 12 - or are the numbers still shrinking? What sort of ASW fleet is that?
Whilst each individual aircraft may be effective, there is a certain minimum number of aircraft required to provide a sustained on station and area capability. Is that even enough to sustain 2-3 aircraft on station for any period of time more than 200-300 miles from home?
If they are only getting 8, they might as well save their money and get none.