VR, if you read back over previous posts it would seem the Brits, the French and the Germans have different negotiating stances - perhaps jointly agreed to keep EADS off balance.
The Germans are insisting on the given fixed price,
The French are after a split buy in 2 tranches, the fixed price for tranche 1, but a higher price for tranche 2.
The Brits are willing to accept a higher unit price, but a lower number of aircraft, as long as the extra cost is taken out of long term maintenance and support costs.
Cut and splice as required.