The MR2 is a fantastic platform but not just because of the nuts and bolts. The way our crews fly it makes it the best in the world. The MRA4 together with those same crews will do so much more.
But with a fleet of 6, what the f*ck's the point?
It might be great for winning a trophy and flying the flag, but the numbers seem totally operationally inadequate as an MRA force. Even as a dedicated recce platform for ops such as Afghanistan it seems inadequate to maintain a 24 hour orbit whilst still having a UK training element plus exercises, deep maintenance etc.
Maybe it would be too embarrassing to admit that, thanks to BAe, we are effectively out of the ASW business - just like we are out of the maritime strike business and the photo recce business.
