The danger inherent in this thread is the apparent acceptance is that the rotary wing fleet is adequate now, with the numbers outlined in the first post.
It ain't.
[snip]
What is needed is to boost numbers and address the shortfall with a really big buy of about 24 new helicopters (a fully folding Merlin would fit the bill) and then replace the aircraft being retired with new aircraft on a one-for-one basis. 44 NH90s or Cougars to replace the Pumas, a similar number of amphib Merlins to replace the Junglie Sea Kings and CH-47Fs to replace the Chinooks.
Doing some fag packet maths and assuming an ideal world, (ha!) you'd be looking at about 60 units to replace the 40 odd Pumas and make up the 38% cab shortfall (jungly lack not included).
Then assuming Merlins and not Cougars or god forbid, Superhawks, at a unit price around £23 mil a pop... we're talking about a £1.4 billion contract without all the needed extras and no accounting for snags....
Heh, not holding my breath.