Brandnew - although a little off the original thread of whether the horsey one had an aircraft or not, do you really think that this US exercise has been solely sanctioned by the Merlin Force. Surely the JHC, of which you write so fondly, has had the casting vote as to whether or not this Exercise went ahead. When I was in, they seemed to need to get their fingers into most things!
I suggest you look beyond blaming the Merlin guys, who are a good and capable bunch, and look to the leadership of the JHC - no doubt some Army -therein.