From speaking to someone on the NSW, the rumour that the RN didn't have enough pilots to man both Squadrons was not true, they had just the right amount spread throughout the Force, however it was realised that they didn't have the right number of QFI's (not only to man the OCU but also to fill the front line position). The RN didn't run the same system in the past, they kept their QFI's specifically on the OCU and checks were done there rather than on the front line, so it was a different system.
When the squadrons were to stand up, it dawned on some people higher up that the RN harrier force would deplete the RAF squadrons of over a quarter of their experienced middle management, and so everyone would be in the same dwang! So the wing concept was born (even though it is the desired model for JSF!! So it should be no surprise) and RN pilots are spread about the force and RAF pilots are on the NSW.....with 801 and 800 Sqns sort of existing under the Strike Wing mantle. He says it works fine.
