The only case I am aware of similar to Nimrod was another high profile loss of a soldier in GW2. On that occasion MoD settled out of Court and SoS Defence waived the right to reduce the existing pension award. Whether it is should or shall, we are talking about the same organisation settling that already pays the pension so it matters not.
If there is a settlement to HRA Right to life case I fully expect SoS Def to do the same, that is waive the right to reduce the award. Last time there was an associated gagging order (I think), be interesting to see what the MoD do next.
I assume Collins must have a book in the pipeline?