The fuel leak incidents referred to in Mick Smith's article occurred after SOP's were changed following the XV230 crash.
An unofficial view.
"Since the incident, the SOP for refuelling nimrods has changed. The carter pump is not switched on until asked to by the Nimrod and it is turned off for the final stage of the refuel. I also think they no longer fill to full.
I am positive there will be no blame whatsoever attached to the Tri-Startanker crew. You cannot refuel at the incorrect pressure as the system is automatic and if a carter pump is left on as the flow rate reduces the system will knock it off. It may be put down to the practise of staying in contact after tanks are full, a practise that was also carried out on the VC10. This could have led to the tanks and the vent system being exposed to pressures the system was not designed for."
Furthermore, the incidents continue, this one happened this year.
One of the Nimrods recently landed with 7 tons of fuel sloshing around in the bomb bay, another fuel migration and one which could have seen a repeat of Afghanistan.
I will dig out the Parliamentary answer and compare.