TD, this is most definitely a safety issue. I nearly wiped out in Pakistan airspace back in 2002. Nearly had a mid air against a USAF C130 flying at the wrong level, lights out. Saved by my Air Eng who spotted the potential collision on NVGs and the Co who reacted with an aggressive break at the last second. (Miss distance 50 to 70 feet).
I can't speak for Nimrod engineer manning levels, but this is what happens when everything has been run down to bare thread. I am sure of one thing. the most expedient option, money wise, will be the one selected.