I can see this thread is in danger of turning into a political debate on the ignorant decisions our government has made with regard to military purchases. Be that as it may I would have to agree with Groundfloor's comments. Another "great" idea was the purchasing of the Gripen fighters. Great aircraft but as far as I am concerned way too expensive for the job that needs to be done here in Southern Africa. Too high tech for the bush. They should have gone for a less expensive and more proven option. This Airbus 400M will probably turn out to be a good plane but once again I think it is too much {money, technology and time waisted} for what it will be used for in Africa.
ct