Nige, Drayson has sorted out the Chinook fiasco? Eh? Standby on that one; Mk3's don't miraculously morph into Mk2's overnight. That decision has shafted the programme good and proper, and the misconception that these Chinnies will enter service any earlier than the projected Mk3 entry date is, IMHO, complete bolleaux!
There's lots to do, and few people appreciate the intricacies of it all, least of all the Govt, it would appear.
It's ok though, we've got some massively incompatible with the rest of the fleet Merlins, (causing the lovely fleet within fleet situation we all know and love) which need yet more spares we haven't got.
I appreciate they needed an eye-catching headline, and to be seen to be doing something - anything - for the commanders on the ground, but believe me, the situation has yet to be 'sorted'.
Nothing personal BTW, just thought I'd bung in my 2p.
Cheers.