What amuses me about the whole FA2 debate is that all i hear is 'power projection, more akin to JSF, Limited air defence capability, defence of the fleet etc.' No-one seems to consider the fact that without a fighter sweep you don't get to the target, your bombs don't project a thing, what is the point in having the punch if the enemy can keep it at bay. No one has ever enjoyed being bombed but we seem to be in the mindset that we can waltz aross the beach head without the FA2 and bomb with impuntiy. Cr#p. If we don't have an FA2 sweep/ CAP then the GR7/9 s die enroute to their targets, simple as that. And those that don't go home to a very soggy bed.