SC,
totally agree with the fact we need air to air cover for our ships,but is keeping the FA2 the way to do it.I don't know what the ratio for maintenance per flying hour is but having talked to quite a few 'ZOOMIES' it's not that good,and bloody expensive.
Would an other option not be to lease ac to do the job,that could work off our carriers until we get the JSF.I admit i'm not too ofay with what ac could do the job,so I haven't got any idea's to offer.However, im sure there are plenty of people in the know who can.
Maybe giving some different options in the letter may help your, nay our cause.