Jacko
I think that the RN has taken its fair share of cuts; numerous FF/DDs until its below the level recommended in SDR (21 vice 32); only 9 SSNs in service vice 17 a few years ago; 4 x SSKs sold to Canada as a savings measure; SHAR taken out of service early as a savings measure; the MCM forces decimated; closure of several shore bases.
In addition the Naval procurement programme has been hit: only 3 Astutes ordered so far, only 6 T45s vice the 8 required; the MARS ships not yet ordered; MK2 Merlin never ordered.
A competition of this sort is not really helpful, but continually going on about how the RAF has been cut but the RN hasn't is just plain wrong. Still, no one expects Journos to deal in facts.
The key to the future is to define the commitments that are essential & then fund them. If we can't afford those commiments then we have to knock off thoses that are less essential.
Last edited by andyy; 23rd Sep 2009 at 09:09.