What are the implications of the RAF flying just one RW type in the long-term?
Poor - good case for either RN or Army to take on the task.
How long will the RN take to convert to MK3/a?
Not long - they already have RN aircrew and engineers embedded in the Mk3 Force .
Where will the RN get the extra crews (Pilots/Cmn/Engineers)required to operate the MK3/a? (I know some AEops and Nimrod Engs looking for a job)
Er, from the CHF? The Mk3 is replacing the SK4 and will be based at Yeovilton. Any one with any sense will move the Mk3 sim to Yeovilton, keep it connected to the CH47 complex wherever that ends up and ensure that the Wildcat sim is also networked (indeed it should be in the same building).