ATFQ
Like I said my opinion. Based, like yours on information "heard" from others! Don't get me wrong - I do not wish to see the demise of the Harrier or the loss of the Carriers. But there are other assets more than capable of doing the AFG thing - rather than some of JFH being current on deck why not all (and there is a huge difference between "current iaw training schedule" and competent - not meant as a slight, just experience from NVG currency/"recency"/competence on another jet!). And if that means a smaller, leaner but better force then so be it.
A couple of years off and then back into the fray. Recharge batteries etc. Do them all the world of good.