The RN generically has neither the people or the kit to Command and Control FJ assets at either the operational or tactical level. To do so would require a DTIO and JFACHQ type set-up, afloat.
Well....that comment does not even deserve a reply
Widger,
I think it's an entirely accurate statement. The RN have only just started to look at establishing an N2 branch and have barely looked at the enormous J2/J6 issues surrounding exploiting the exceptional capabilities of F-35.
The aircraft will be able to contribute enormously to ISTAR in it's own right but only if the EW, threat and other data bases and J2 systems are there to support and maintain ops. Those will all need appropriate J6 which the RN have very little experience in.
Luckily there is a very capable SO1 at Fleet looking at these issues, but he is the first to acknowledge that they
are significant weaknesses. Fleet are leaning heavily on RAF expertise in this area and envisage RAF personnel forming a major part of the CVF J2/6 manning at least initially. As ever, there are no funds to properly establish an N2 branch.
Likewise, FAA retention and career structure issues means that very little dark blue fast jet experience stays beyond the rank of Cdr and this also degrades the RN's ability to exercise appropriate C2 over RN assets. The outlook is not much better when several RN star ranks have stated that 'we don't care who flies the aircraft, as long as we get CVF'.
No particular hit on the RN but it is most certainly a true statement that right now, the RN lack the ability to support a medium sized Air Group of advanced fast jets.
CVF will be a Joint asset and will need Joint manning. RAF personnel will therefore go to sea and I have attended several Joint courses where the guys with the most sea time over a set period have been Harrier air or ground crews.
Regards,
MM