Widger I think we could be looking at a very much reduced armed forces in terms of both people and equipment and some of the equipment not being as capable as hoped.
Equipment- Probably.
People- Can only be cut if commitments are trimmed also.We are as lean as it gets manpower wise.
This recession will not last forever, even the MOD know this and the last thing they want is a mass exodus whilst trying to meet stated commitments.
Equipment and procurement will be mercilessly slashed, but it would not surprise me if manpower was left as is, or even raised in some areas.
However, if our commitment to Afghanistan ends, all bets are off!