Of course we had only just acquired 9Ls for the SHAR. Doubtful if they would have held a set back for the Nimrod.
We didn't
If the intended target was the 707 which used to probe ASI
That wasn't the rationale. There was no intention to launch a QRA Nimrod!! The primary aim was to provide a capability against the 707
on task,and the secondary purpose to provide a self defence capability. As I am sure will agree PN, in may cases even if you don't destroy the target deterring him can still achieve your objective. Whilst the Nimrod was not exactly the best intercept platform in the world, its presence could be enough to make the opposition a bit more circumspect. It would have taken some good tactical handling by the AAWC but a trap could have been sprung.
YS