Pro F3 guys are always going to defend the a/c. Quite rightly so, we live in a democracy.
For me, the bottom line is that, short of QRA, we do not need the F3. It will not deploy in aid of Telic/Herrick and is being replaced by the F2. At risk, I would suggest that it is safe to shrink the force now, allowing a gap prior to 6 Sqn reforming at Leuchars.
The criminal element is the goverment's decision to divert Typhoons to RSAF in order to get BAe foot in the door over in the Middle East. BAe are certainly hoping for orders from neighbouring countries. The knock on effect has been rather startling, not least for the GR9 mates.