So absolutley right !
I'm not Einstein, but even I can work out we need more than 6 Type 45's, allowing for CBG coverage, refits etc, + we need a decent long range aircraft ( airframe and/or missiles ) to protect the fleet; I've been accused of being mad for stating these simple FACTS.- Harrier 2+ with AMRAAM seems a good idea for now - but what the hell should I know, I only worked with Flight Test on the AMRAAM & Blue Vixen devlopment.
The F-35B is still a long way from being operational, but I think it will happen in the end.
Does anyone remember G.A. Custer when he set for the Battle of Little Big Horn - ( he didn't know he was at the time presumably through poor recce ) ! -
One of his last printable words was " leave the gatling guns behind boy's, theyll only be a hindrance " !!!